By Dr. Keerthi Sudireddy
Many people who lost a tooth years ago assume the chance for an implant has passed. In most cases it has not, though some rebuilding of bone may be needed.
You can usually get a dental implant years after losing a tooth. The main challenge is bone loss, since the jaw shrinks where a tooth is missing. If enough bone remains, the implant goes in normally; if not, a bone graft or sinus lift rebuilds the site first. A 3D scan shows exactly what is needed.
What changes over time
When a tooth is missing for a long time, the bone that supported it gradually shrinks because chewing no longer stimulates it. This is the main factor that affects late implant placement.
How it is managed
- If enough bone remains, the implant is placed as normal.
- If bone is reduced, a bone graft rebuilds it first.
- In the upper back jaw, a sinus lift may be used.
The takeaway
It is rarely too late. Even with significant bone loss, modern grafting techniques make implants possible for most people. A scan is the only way to know your exact options.
Find out what is possible at The Tooth Studio.
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