How Long Do You Wait for Dental Implants After Extraction

Dental implants are a reliable replacement option if a patient has a tooth extracted. There are many reasons to pull permanent teeth, including infection, irreversible damage, and a crowded mouth. A dentist may recommend an implant if a patient is experiencing difficulties with chewing or speaking, or if the person is self-conscious about smiling. It is important for a patient to understand what is the healing process after a tooth extraction and how to prepare their mouth for a dental implant.

Tooth extraction process

During tooth extraction, a dental professional pulls the tooth from the bony socket in the jaw. Once the tooth is removed, the patient needs to allow time for the bone to heal. While the majority of tooth extractions are simple and safe, complications can arise. However, patients have a fair amount of control over how well their mouth heals by following the care recommendations from the dentist.

Proper care

Immediately following a tooth extraction, the dentist places a gauze pack on the site to limit bleeding. The patient can remove the gauze after about 30 to 45 minutes. A blood clot needs to form to help with the healing process.

Do not rinse the mouth or drink through a straw for at least 24 hours. A patient can brush and floss other teeth, but should avoid cleaning any teeth next to the site. Proper care of the site avoids complications such as dry socket. Some swelling and pain is common after tooth extraction; therefore, a dentist may prescribe medication.

Healing period

A patient should see improvements in pain within two to three days following extraction. During the next few weeks, a patient should perform rinses of warm salt water to kill bacteria in the mouth and prevent infection, and avoid hard foods such as chips and toast. Care should be taken not to bite down on the site in the mouth. The healing period for a simple tooth extraction typically takes up to 10 days, depending on a variety of factors such as age and overall health.

Dental implant insertion

In the past, a tooth extraction site was left to heal for several months before placing dental implants. However, improvements in dental implant hardware and patient demand for faster implantation has shortened or eliminated healing time. There is some research that suggests that immediate placement of the dental implant after extraction counteracts complications such as shifting teeth and bone loss.

Conversely, a dental professional may suggest waiting several weeks or months before placing a dental implant. Factors including bone integrity and thickness, tissue structure, and general and oral health may be considered. The process for receiving a dental implant typically consists of three phases: Placement of implant, healing, and placement of prosthesis. If taken care of properly, a dental implant lasts for many years.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Dental Implants in Emerson, NJ

Conclusion

Tooth extraction and subsequent placement of dental implants is an individualized process. A consultation with a dental professional can clarify the correct timing for each patient.

Request an appointment or call Emerson Dental Associates at 201-620-9998 for an appointment in our Emerson office.

Recent Posts

Multiple Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridge

Dental implants are a great way to replace multiple missing teeth. A dental bridge is also a solution for multiple teeth replacement in many cases as well. By learning more about the pros and cons of each option, it will help you decide which treatment option is right for you. Missing teeth create a cosmetic, functional…

Are Dental Implants Worthwhile

If you have one or more missing teeth that need to be replaced, dental implants can help fill in your smile. This option allows patients to accomplish several goals, including enhancing appearance and restoring function. However, implants can cost patients a lot upfront, leading patients to wonder if this solution is worth the price.It is…

Why Do You Need Dental Implants

Dental implants have joined the list of replacement options for missing teeth, with many patients preferring the look and feel of implants to dentures or bridges. In addition to providing patients with natural-looking teeth, implants are effective in restoring confidence and making eating or speaking more comfortable. They also can improve an individual’s oral health.…

Dr. Martini

Share
Published by
Dr. Martini

Recent Posts

4 Things You May Not Have Known About Clear Braces

Many have heard about clear braces, but it is helpful to understand more about what…

3 weeks ago

When Denture Repair is Needed

Dentures and partial dentures require denture repair as needed, depending on the stage of your…

2 months ago

Transforming Your Smile: Steps to a Successful Smile Makeover

A smile makeover is a cosmetic process that alters the aesthetic of the smile without…

3 months ago

Hard Reline Versus Soft Reline for Dentures

Hard and soft denture relines are similar. In both cases, the dentist removes some of…

4 months ago

What Oral Appliances Are Used in Dentistry to Treat Sleep Apnea?

There are several treatment options available for patients with sleep apnea. The following is a…

5 months ago

How Dental Crowns Affect Your Smile

Dental crowns look similar to natural teeth, so no one will be able to tell…

6 months ago