How Long After a Tooth Is Pulled Can an Implant Be Put In?
By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
Patients often ask me, “How long after a tooth is pulled can an implant be put in?” The answer depends on your mouth’s health, the reason the tooth was removed, and the condition of your jawbone.
In some cases, an implant can be placed the same day the tooth is removed. This is called immediate placement. It works best when there is no infection, the bone is strong, and the gum tissue is healthy. The benefit is fewer surgeries and a shorter overall treatment time.
Other times, it’s better to wait a few months after the tooth is pulled. This healing period allows the bone and gums to recover before placing the implant. On average, this can take three to six months. This approach is common if the tooth was removed because of infection or if bone grafting is needed to prepare the area.
If a tooth has been missing for many years, the bone in that area may have shrunk. In those cases, we may need to do a bone graft before an implant can be placed. That can add more healing time, but it helps ensure the implant will be strong and last for many years.
At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, I create a plan based on your specific situation. I take X-rays and 3D scans to see the bone and decide the safest and most effective timing for your implant. We are a no-judgment office, so whether you lost your tooth yesterday or ten years ago, we will help you find the best path forward.
If you’re ready to replace a missing tooth with a strong, natural-looking implant, call Summerbrook Dental & Implants today for a consultation.