Do I Need a Dental Implant after Extraction?
Not necessarily, a dental implant is always needed after a tooth extraction but dentists highly recommend it to avoid problems such as bone resorption, movement of teeth, and bite problems.
Why Place a Dental Implant After Tooth Extraction?
1. It keeps your jawbone healthy: When a tooth is lost and its place is left empty, the bone shrinks within a few months. Implants activate the bone, thus saving it from loss and changes in the face.
2. It stops shifting of teeth: The teeth that are left try to move into spaces that are empty and this leads to them being crooked and the patient having a wrong bite.
3. Gets the job done again: Easier and natural chewing and speaking.
4. Closest to a natural one: Implants resemble real teeth and hence they don’t stand out in your smile.
5. A permanent choice: With good hygiene, implants, unlike bridges or removable dentures, can stay for years.
Is It Always Necessary to Get an Implant After Extraction?
1. In brief: No. Usually, dental implants are suggested, but it is not compulsory to have them in every case.
2. Also: Bridges and removable dentures can take the place of the lost teeth as well but only implants keep the bone from resorbing which is vital for oral health in the long run. Your dentist will guide you according to the area, the state of the bone, and your preference.
Immediate vs. Delayed Implants: When Is the Right Time for You?
1. Immediate implant: There are situations where an implant can be fitted at the time of extraction – perfect for the scenario when the gums are healthy, the bone is strong, and there is no infection.
2. Delayed placement (mostly): Generally, the extraction site should be left to heal for 10 weeks to 3 months before the implant is placed. The longer the wait (6+ months), the higher the chance that bone grafts will be needed.
Can You Get Implants? Important Requirements
1. Being generally and orally healthy (without conditions like poorly controlled diabetes, gum disease, and heavy smoking)
2. Adequate bone volume (though it can be corrected with grafting if necessary)
3. The gums should be in good condition
4. No infection ongoing
They may also suggest other tests (CBCT) and personal consultation, The London dentists.
What Risks Are Associated With Waiting or Doing Nothing?
1. Loss of bone: The bone quickly gets used up without a root.
2. Teeth shifting and bite problems: “Gap teeth” can lead to wrong alignment.
3. Difficult/expensive treatment later: Time and money for future bone grafts will increase.
The Stages of a Dental Implant?
1. Consultation: It can be free or paid and it comprises scans (CBCT/X-ray) and a thorough assessment.
2. Treatment planning: Bone condition, implant schedule, and other options.
3. Extraction (if not already done): Performed under local anesthesia and the doctor will be gentle.
4. Implant placement: Implant can be put in immediately or after the healing period, depending on the situation.
5. Recovery: 3–6 months for the bone to grow around the implant.
6. Crown placement: The final step for a natural and functional result.