When you need a tooth extracted, or already have a missing tooth, dental implants are a great option to regain your beautiful smile. Traditional dental implants may take several months before the process is complete, especially if a bone graft is necessary. Same-day dental implants, however, can restore your smile in record time.
Sadly, not everyone is a good candidate for same-day dental implants—but if Dr. Mike approves, you’ll be able to replace your teeth faster than ever. Here’s an overview of how this technique works, and who is eligible for the procedure.
What are same-day dental implants?
Same-day dental implants can often be placed the same day a tooth is extracted. The process may take up to several hours to complete. Procedural time will vary from patient to patient based on the specific circumstances of each case.
Keep in mind you will not leave the office with permanent teeth that day. You’ll still need time for your jaw and gums to heal around the implant, before crowns can be installed. However, you will receive temporary crowns the same day.
Same-day dental implants can replace a single tooth, a full arch (replacing all or most of the teeth in a single arch) and implant-supported dentures.
Typically, you’ll need three appointments: a consultation, the same-day dental implant placement, and a follow-up appointment to place the crown and monitor your healing.
Who can get same-day dental implants?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Mike will perform an examination and let you know which implant options are right for you.
Same-day dental implant candidates:
- Have one or more damaged or missing teeth
- Have good jawbone density in the implant location
- Have healthy gum and oral tissue (that is, no gum disease or other oral health issues)
- Do not have any medical conditions which may negatively affect bone healing
- Do not grind their teeth excessively
- Want an easy alternative to dentures or bridge work
- Want immediate cosmetic and functional improvement
If you meet these conditions, a same-day dental implant may be right for you.
What if I’m not a good candidate for same-day dental implants?
If you’re not a good candidate for same-day dental implants, don’t worry: you can still restore your smile with traditional dental implants. Although the process takes longer, you’ll get the same permanent, attractive results.
Dr. Mike will help you form a treatment plan. For example, you may need to address issues with gum disease before the implants can be placed, or build up jawbone density with a bone graft. Some patients may need implants anchored to different areas of their jawbone.
If you have medical issues which may interfere with bone healing, Dr. Mike will talk to you about implants or other options to replace your missing teeth.
To learn more about same-day dental implants and whether or not you’re a good candidate, schedule a consultation with Dr. Mike at the Cleveland Implant Institute today.