Missing teeth can be a major inconvenience, making it difficult to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Your smile can be improved and missing teeth can be replaced with dental implants. However, the procedure for getting dental implants can be challenging and protracted.
If you’re considering getting dental implants, it’s important to understand the timeline for tooth extraction and implant. If you do this, you can get ready for the procedure and know what to anticipate.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the tooth extraction and implant timeline step-by-step. We’ll also go over some suggestions for implant placement success.
What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the process of removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This is typically done by a dentist or oral surgeon. There are two types of tooth extractions:
- Simple Extraction ➜ This is when a tooth can be easily seen in the mouth and can be removed with simple tools. It’s usually done for teeth that are visible above the gumline.
- Surgical Extraction ➜ Surgical extractions are more complex and involve teeth that might be broken, impacted (partially or fully trapped beneath the gumline), or not easily accessible. This type of extraction often requires a small incision.
When Do You Need a Tooth Extraction?
You might need a tooth extraction for various reasons, such as:
- Severe tooth decay
- Irreparable tooth damage
- Overcrowding of teeth
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Gum disease
- Preparation for orthodontic treatment
Timeline for tooth extraction and implant placement
Week 1-2: Tooth extraction
In the first 1 to 2 weeks, the dentist takes out the damaged or problematic tooth. They make sure you don’t feel pain during this by using numbing medicine.
Weeks 3-10: Healing
After the tooth is out, your mouth needs time to heal. It’s like when you have a cut; it takes a bit to get better. So, you’ll need about 3 to 10 weeks for your gums and jaw to heal up.
Weeks 11-13: Implant placement
Once your gum and jawbone have healed, the dentist will place a small metal post, called an implant, into your jawbone. This implant will act as the root of your new tooth.
Months 3-6: Osseointegration
Now, your jawbone and the implant become good pals. They grow together and make a strong bond. This takes a few months, around 3 to 6.
Week 7: Abutment placement
The abutment is like a connector between the implant and your new tooth. It’s a small part they put in during week 7.
Week 8: Crown placement
Finally, they add the crown, which is your new tooth. It fits on top of the implant and looks just like a real tooth. This happens in week 8.
Total time: 7-8 months
So, when you add up all these parts, the whole process usually takes around 7 to 8 months. It might feel like a while, but it’s to make sure everything is strong and works great. Your new tooth is worth the wait! 😊
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Tips for a Successful Implant Placement
Here are some tips for a successful implant placement:
- Choose a qualified and experienced dentist or oral surgeon.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully before and after surgery.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Quit smoking, if you smoke.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects, such as ice and candy.
- Get regular dental checkups and cleanings.
How long do you have to wait for dental implants after tooth extraction?
You will typically need to wait 3 to 6 months after tooth extraction before you can get dental implants. This is so that your jawbone can heal after losing the tooth. If you get dental implants too soon, there is a risk that the implants will not fuse properly with your jawbone.
How can I cover my missing teeth while waiting for the implant?
There are a few ways to cover missing teeth while waiting for an implant. Here are some options:
- Temporary Denture ➜ Your dentist can make a removable denture to fill the space temporarily. It looks like a set of fake teeth and can be taken out when needed.
- Flipper ➜ It’s a lightweight partial denture with a fake tooth that can easily fit in your mouth. It’s comfortable and provides a temporary solution.
- Bridge ➜ If you have adjacent teeth on both sides of the gap, a dental bridge can be used. It involves attaching a false tooth to the neighboring teeth.
- Stay Patient ➜ Sometimes, you may need to wait without any cover, especially if the gap is in the back of your mouth.
Can implants be placed at the time of extraction?
Yes, implants can be placed at the time of extraction. This is called immediate implant placement.
The damaged tooth is removed, and the implant is placed into the jawbone right away by the dentist.
Not all patients are suitable for immediate implant placement. For this procedure to be successful, a healthy jawbone and gums are required.
There are several advantages to having the implant placed at the time of extraction if you are a good candidate for immediate implant placement:
- It can reduce the overall treatment time.
- It can help to preserve the jawbone.
- It can provide you with a temporary tooth immediately after the extraction.
How long does it take for gums to heal after extractions for implants?
After a tooth is removed for an implant, the gums typically heal in 6 to 8 weeks. However, this may change based on how quickly you heal personally and how difficult the extraction was.
You might experience some swelling, bleeding, and discomfort in the first few days following surgery. This is typical and will pass in a week.
Related Article ➦ Who is Responsible for Dental Implant Failure?
How many teeth can be extracted at once?
There is no limit to the number of teeth that can be extracted at once.
However, it is unusual to have all of your teeth removed at once. This is because extracting several teeth can be a challenging and drawn-out process. Additionally possible complications include excessive bleeding and infection.
FAQs
How long does the tooth extraction and implant process take?
The tooth extraction and implant process can take anywhere from 7 to 8 months.
What is the most painful tooth to extract?
The most painful tooth to extract is a wisdom tooth. Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth.
Do they put you to sleep for multiple tooth extractions?
Yes, they may put you to sleep for multiple tooth extractions, but it depends on your individual needs and preferences.
How long is your mouth sore after a dental implant?
Your mouth may be sore for up to 10 days after a dental implant.
What happens if you have a tooth pulled and don’t replace it?
If you have a tooth pulled and don’t replace it, your other teeth may shift to fill the gap, causing crooked teeth and a misaligned bite. You may also have difficulty chewing and speaking.
Final Thoughts
Alright, my friends, we’ve reached the end of our tooth extraction and implant journey. Remember, this process might take a bit of time, but it’s worth it to get that beautiful smile back.
Follow your dentist’s advice, take good care of your mouth, and be patient. Before you know it, you’ll be flashing that new tooth with confidence.
Smile on, and take care of those pearly whites! 😁
