Immediate Implant Placement

This option is considered for a person who needs a tooth removed and may be suitable for implant replacement. The dentist assesses the site and discusses treatment timing, risks, and alternatives before making a plan.

Implant surgery places the implant in the jawbone. During healing, soft foods, cold foods, and warm soup may be recommended.

Immediate loading means attaching the replacement tooth in contact with the opposing teeth within 48 to 72 hours. Conventional loading attaches it after an unloaded healing period of three to six months.

The implant integrates with the jawbone through osseointegration, which can take several months before replacement teeth are attached. Some implants and replacement teeth are placed in the same visit.

The dentist assesses the tooth that needs extraction, the implant site, and the replacement plan. If immediate placement is appropriate, the discussion should cover the implant, the restoration plan, timing, and alternatives.

Follow-up is part of implant treatment because the implant and restoration need review after placement. The clinical team should tell you what appointments are planned and which changes should prompt contact.

A different implant timing plan may be discussed, and other ways of replacing a missing tooth may also be relevant. The choice depends on the clinical finding and the options explained at the appointment.

Ask whether immediate placement is being proposed, what will be placed at the extraction visit, and what happens afterward. A useful plan also identifies the alternative if immediate placement is unsuitable.

The treatment has separate clinical stages: implant placement, bone healing, and fitting a crown, bridge, or denture. A temporary replacement tooth may be used while the permanent restoration is made.