By Dr. Keerthi Sudireddy
A common question after losing or removing a tooth is when an implant can go in. The answer depends on the site, infection, and bone, and ranges from immediately to a few months.
An implant can sometimes be placed immediately at the time of extraction, but often the site is left to heal for two to three months first, especially if there was infection or bone needs to settle. In some cases a bone graft is placed at extraction to preserve the site. Your dentist decides the timing based on a 3D scan and the condition of the socket.
The timing options
- Immediate - implant placed at the same time as extraction, in ideal cases.
- Early (a few weeks) - after initial gum healing.
- Delayed (2 to 3 months) - after the socket heals, often the safest in infected sites.
What affects the timing
- Whether there was infection at the tooth.
- The amount and quality of bone present.
- Which tooth and the cosmetic demands of the area.
Preserving the site
A graft placed at extraction can preserve bone for a future implant. See bone grafting and same-day implants.
Plan the right timing at The Tooth Studio.
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