When you undergo a tooth extraction, your dentist has three different ways of placing new dental implants. Each approach carries advantages and disadvantages, and an essential factor in deciding which one to use is how much bone mass your jaw has at the time of the extraction. If there is enough bone mass for the implant to fuse with the jaw, then a successful dental restoration can be carried out. If not, the dental implant may fail to support a new prosthesis.

1. Immediate Implant Placement

If the dentist places a dental implant immediately after the tooth extraction, he will typically use a type of super-strong dental cement that fuses with the jaw bone. Dental cement is normally used in conjunction with stainless steel implants, and it has to be made into a unique formula for this use.

In this case, the dentist leaves the dental implant's post in place when the patient leaves the surgery. It is then allowed to set over the next few weeks. After that has happened, the dentist can check the bone’s reaction to the implant. He will remove the temporary post and replace it with a permanent one in the usual way.

2. Early Implant Placement

Early dental implant placement is sometimes possible and is a good option if the amount of available bone is limited. The dentist will leave a piece of the jawbone on the implant for several months and then remove it with a particular surgical instrument.

This is because the jaw is likely to heal over several months, and this process will create more bone in the jaw. This extra bone is then available to support the dental implant, and it can be used to implant a prosthetic restoration.

3. Delayed Implant Placement

In this case, the dentist uses the same cement and stainless steel post as he would with the early placement. However, he waits for eight to 12 months before finalizing whether the implant will be successful.

This gives the jaw bone plenty of time to become fully integrated with the dental implant, and it is the approach normally used for patients with good bone density.

Implant-Supported Dentures vs. Implant-Retained Dentures

Once you have your new dental implants, you can have any crown placed on them. However, you will either have an implant-supported denture or an implant-retained denture.

An implant-supported denture is placed immediately after the implant is placed, and the existing structure of your mouth supports it. It typically consists of a metal framework fixed onto the implant and a plastic base that fits into the gum.

An implant-retained denture is usually only used if you have had a previous denture on the same jaw. In this case, the dentist will remove a section of the bone when the implant is placed, and then a special implant frame can be placed. It supports the denture when worn and holds it in place.

Conclusion

The decision about placing your dental implants after a tooth extraction is crucial, and it will determine how successful your dental prosthesis is. With most patients, the dentist can rely on their physiognomy and the amount of bone mass they have to make the right decision. However, contact your dentist if you have any concerns about dental extractions, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry.

G-Dental32 provides quality dental care services in Denver, CO, including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, oral surgery, and sedation dentistry. Our dentists can change your smile to be more aesthetically pleasing permanently. We can change the shape and shade of your teeth by removing a very minimal amount of healthy tooth structure and cementing on veneers. If you need a dentist for veneer installation in Denver, get in touch with us! We look forward to meeting you!