Have you recently had a tooth removed or are planning an extraction in the future? Pulling the tooth is just the first step to restoring your oral health. You’ll need a tooth replacement to help maintain your smile, and you might be starting to search for “dental implants near me.” But what is the right timing for implants after losing a tooth?
At Bayshore Family Dental, we can help you perfectly time your dental implants in Dunedin. Below, explore when and why you should choose this option after an extraction, factors that may impact timing, and when to take the first step toward restoring your smile.
Why Consider Dental Implants Near Me
Losing a tooth doesn’t just leave a gap in your smile—it can affect your oral health and even your facial structure over time. Dental implants are one of the most effective long-term solutions for replacing missing teeth. Here’s why getting implants after an extraction can make a significant difference:
Preventing Bone Loss
After a tooth extraction, the jawbone beneath it begins to lose density almost immediately. One study found that you lose 30% of the bone where your tooth socket is after an extraction. Without the stimulation of a tooth root, the bone lacks the signals it needs to maintain its strength and volume. Our dental implants in Dunedin act as artificial roots, stimulating the jawbone and preventing bone loss.
Maintaining Facial Structure
Tooth loss can gradually cause your face to appear sunken, making you look older than you are. By replacing the missing tooth with a dental implant, you maintain the integrity of your facial structure and preserve your smile’s youthful appearance and natural look.
Seamless Function and Appearance
Dental implants are designed to mimic your natural teeth in look and feel. Unlike dentures or bridges, they won’t shift while you eat or speak. They’re a permanent solution that blends perfectly with your existing teeth.
The Ideal Timing for Dental Implants in Dunedin
One of the most common questions patients ask after an extraction is, “When should I look into dental implants near me?” The timing can vary depending on several factors; however, here is a general guideline on when to reach out to Bayshore Family Dental.
Same-Day Implants
For some patients, same-day or immediate dental implants are a possibility. When performed by an experienced dentist, the implant can be placed directly into the extraction site during the same appointment. This eliminates the waiting period and helps preserve the bone immediately.
Early Implant Placement
If the gum tissue requires time to heal after an extraction, dental implants are typically placed within a couple of months. This recovery period allows minor bone and gum healing while preventing excessive bone loss or unnecessary delays.
Delayed Implant Placement
For patients with more significant bone loss or gum issues, delayed placement may be needed. Often, inadequate bone tissue requires additional procedures, such as bone grafting, before implant placement to provide a stable foundation for the implant.
Factors That Affect Implant Timing
While the general timeline provides a solid framework, several personal factors can influence when you should get dental implants after an extraction.
Bone Density
Healthy jawbone density is critical for supporting a dental implant. If significant bone loss has occurred, our dentist may recommend a bone graft before implant placement. This procedure strengthens the foundation for the implant, ensuring long-term success.
Overall Health
Your general health plays a significant role in determining how quickly you can proceed with dental implants. Conditions such as diabetes, smoking, or gum disease may delay the process, as they can impact healing. However, don’t give up hope—we’ll review your medical history and oral health to create a personalized plan to help you reach your goals.
The Number of Teeth Extracted
If multiple teeth were extracted, the complexity of the implant procedure may require additional preparation time or a modified approach to tooth replacement. For instance, for full-mouth restorations, we might recommend All-on-4 implants, implant-supported dentures, or bridges. We also offer
The Location of the Tooth
The position of the extracted tooth also influences implant timing. Front teeth often require a more immediate aesthetic solution with quicker placement, whereas back teeth may allow a slightly longer healing process due to their location.
Follow an Extraction with Dental Implants Near Me
Don’t neglect following up your tooth extraction with a stunning tooth replacement. Reach out to Bayshore Family Dental today to have our team assess your unique needs, consider your timeline, and guide you toward the best implant solution tailored to your specific requirements. Book your consultation for dental implants in Dunedin now. Together, we’ll map out a plan that gives you the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.
