The placement of an implant immediately after tooth extraction offers reduced treatment time and increased patient satisfaction. First introduced in 1976, immediate implants now have survival rates similar to delayed placement and are an increasingly popular way to replace missing teeth. At Monroe Dental Office we can provide a comprehensive evaluation and help you determine if this treatment option is the best one for you.
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants consist of a titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone and used to support a replacement tooth. With the traditional method, tooth extraction is done first and left to heal for several months, then the implant is surgically placed.
Immediate loading involves placing the implant within 48 hours of tooth extraction and the placement of a temporary crown. This temporary crown is carefully shaped, so it does not touch the tooth on the opposite side of the mouth. The crown is there for cosmetic purposes and should not have any hard pressure put on it. This means the patient must agree to a soft diet and to take extra time and effort to care for the area around the implant after the first couple of months after the surgery.
How Do Immediate Implants Work?
Computed tomography (CT scans) help our dentist precisely place implants in the jawbone, and special torque wrenches measure the amount of force put on the implants during placement. These technologies allow us to place implants in the correct amount of healthy bone promoting more effective and faster healing. After implantation, osseointegration takes place. New bone tissue in the jawbone grows on and around the implant post and forms a direct connection, holding it firmly in place. The process takes a few months, and it is important to minimize movement of the implant during this time.
Benefits of Immediate Implants
The implant, abutment, and temporary crown are all done in the same procedure, greatly reducing overall treatment time. There is no need to uncover the implant three to six months later to add the abutment and crown. The post helps preserve jawbone density and the short treatment time reduces the psychological and physical impact of losing teeth.
Contact Monroe Dental Office Today for All Your Implant Needs
Our expert team can evaluate your oral health and your circumstances as well as help determine if immediate dental implants are the right treatment for you. We can answer all your questions and customize a plan that gets you the results you are looking for quickly and safely. Call us today!