Have you had a tooth extracted recently? Whether it’s due to damage, infection, or decay, you’re now dealing with a gap that makes it more difficult to chew and smile with confidence. Thankfully, a dental implant can give you the closest thing to a natural tooth with a variety of unique benefits. But how long do you have to wait to get a dental implant after having your tooth extracted? Read on to find out the answer!
What Happens When You Lose a Tooth?
Getting used to your missing tooth can take some time because the empty space it creates may seem strange. You’ll want to run your tongue around the affected area, but it’s important to let it heal. There will also be some changes in your smile that aren’t as obvious, including jawbone deterioration. This occurs when the tooth is extracted because the bone isn’t receiving the same amount of stimulation that it was from your natural tooth roots. Additionally, teeth can shift out of place because they rely on each other to stay aligned.
Why Choose Dental Implants for a Tooth Replacement?
Fortunately, these problems can be avoided with dental implants – the best tooth replacement solution. They act as artificial tooth roots to replace your smile from the roots up. They stimulate your jawbone to keep it healthy and strong while also providing the necessary support that helps your remaining teeth stay aligned. Plus, dental implants look, feel, and function just like natural teeth, giving you the strong, attractive, and confident smile that you deserve.
How Soon After Extraction Can You Get a Dental Implant?
The time you must wait in between your extraction and dental implant will depend on your specific case. Factors like the position of the gap in your smile as well as your oral and overall health will contribute to your dentist’s recommendation. Typically, you will need to wait a minimum of 10 weeks after your tooth extraction before you can have implant surgery. This waiting period gives your mouth enough time to recover from your extraction, however there are some instances where implants can be placed immediately. You can enjoy immediate dental implant placement if you have good oral health and a strong jawbone. Once your tooth is extracted, your dentist can place an implant into the bone. After the implant is completely fused to the jaw, the permanent crown will be placed.
Your health is always worth the wait. Now that you know more about your extraction timeline, you can look forward to a restored smile thanks to dental implants!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Hanife Canan Bayraktaroglu, known by her Southlake patients as “Dr. Bay,” is a Board-Certified Prosthodontist who has advanced training and education from prestigious organizations like the Pankey Institute and the Dawson Academy. This experience allows her to treat even the toughest of cases, offering treatments like dental implants and extractions. Dr. Bay can be contacted through her website or by phone at (737) 250-0304 to schedule an appointment.