Timeline for Tooth Extraction and a Dental Implant Procedure

After recommending tooth extraction, a dentist commonly also suggests a dental restoration such as dental implants. The timing and planning of the procedure, from the extraction to the placement of dental implants, is important for achieving a pleasing, functional, and long-lasting result.

Tooth removal

Before proceeding with tooth extraction, the dentist will typically administer local anesthesia at the site of removal. This will numb the area to minimize discomfort during the procedure. If further measures are needed, the dentist can explain them to the patient.

The dentist will hold the affected tooth with forceps and carefully shake it to loosen it from the tissues and ligaments holding it. If the tooth is hard to pull, the dentist may need to break it apart and extract it in pieces.

The tooth restoration process

The extracted tooth has to be replaced to maintain the alignment, appearance, and functions of the bite. There are different timing options for implant placement. The primary deciding factor is the condition of the jawbone where the implant will sit.

Although the dentist may be able to get an overview by taking X-rays before the tooth extraction, it may be hard to determine the extent of the damage until the tooth is extracted. It is also possible that the tooth socket may be unavoidably damaged during the extraction surgery, especially if the bone is diseased or fragile.

Immediate placement

In many cases, the dentist will remove the bad tooth and place the implant simultaneously in a single surgery. The challenge here is placing an implant into a socket that may not provide a precise fit. There will probably be space around the implant that needs healing and restoration. This is also applicable to the gum tissue that will surround and support the implant. Partial bone healing and gum shrinkage can expose the implants.

The dentist can correct this issue by performing bone and tissue graft procedures after placing the implant. The only condition is that the surgical site must be carefully protected in the following weeks. This procedure is done on the basis that the tooth socket is intact with no case of bone loss. If the implant cannot be placed immediately, the patient will need to wait for several weeks after tooth extraction to allow the gum tissue to heal before the implant surgery.

From implant surgery to new teeth

If only a tooth will be replaced with the dental implant, the dentist may decide to attach a temporary prosthetic tooth at the time of implant placement. The prosthetic tooth must be placed in a way that it does not meet with the opposing tooth. This is to prevent disruption of the osseointegration process, when the implant fuses with the jaw bone.

After the implant fully fuses, usually two to four months depending on the condition of the jawbone, the dentist will place the permanent crown on the implant. Only then will the dental restoration be strong enough to withstand normal biting force.

Final note

Several months may seem like a long time, but if you want the dental implant procedure to be successful after tooth extraction, you need to be patient and follow the dentist’s timeline. Once the entire process is completed, dental implants are usually long-lasting and will allow you to have a fully functional and long-lasting tooth.

Request an appointment here: https://balharbourdentist.com or call Bal Harbour Smiles at (305) 440-4229 for an appointment in our Surfside office.

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