If you’re considering a smile makeover with dental implants, you may have heard of “immediate implants.” Unlike traditional implants that require a waiting period to integrate with the jawbone, immediate implants are placed directly after tooth extraction. You can leave the dental office with a new tooth, or teeth, all on the same day. But what should you expect if you opt for immediate implants? In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of immediate implants so that you can decide whether they’re right for you.

Immediate implants might be the smile makeover solution you’ve been searching for. 

A beautiful smile is a source of confidence and self-esteem for many people. Unfortunately, not everyone is born with perfect teeth, and the health of our teeth can change throughout the years. Teeth can become discolored, misaligned, or chipped over time, making you feel self-conscious and less confident. Missing teeth, in particular, can be a major source of embarrassment. They can affect your speech, your ability to eat comfortably, and overall appearance. 

If you’re unhappy with your smile due to missing teeth, you should know you aren’t alone. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly 70% of adults aged 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth due to decay, gum disease, or injury. And by age 74, over a quarter of adults have lost all their permanent teeth.

Thankfully, you don’t need to live with missing teeth. Immediate implants might be the solution you’ve been searching for. They offer a fast and effective way to replace missing teeth and restore your smile to its former glory.

Am I a candidate for immediate implants?

For many, immediate implants might sound too good to be true. But you may indeed be a candidate. The ideal candidate for immediate implants meets the following criteria:

• Patients who have lost single, or multiple teeth are good candidates for immediate implants.
• Those with healthy gums and adequate jawbone structure to support the implant are ideal candidates.
• We do not recommend immediate implants for patients with significant gum disease or other oral health issues that could compromise the success of the implant.
• Patients in good overall health, including non-smokers, are more likely to be successful candidates for immediate implants.
• Those who want to avoid the inconvenience and cost of wearing dentures or other temporary tooth replacements during the healing process are often interested in immediate implants.
• People with busy schedules who cannot take time off work or other activities to undergo multiple dental appointments.

What’s involved in the immediate implant process?

Immediate implants can be a game-changer for those who need to replace a missing tooth or teeth. The process is a convenient and time-saving way to restore your smile in less time. While the process may vary depending on your specific circumstances and the state of your oral health, the general steps look as follows: 

1. Extraction of the damaged or decayed tooth (if necessary).
2. Assessment of the jawbone to ensure there is sufficient bone density to support the implant.
3. Placement of the implant into the jawbone.
4. Attachment of the abutment (a connector piece) to the implant that will hold the crown in place.
5. Placement of the final restoration, typically a crown or bridge, to the abutment.
6. The healing process begins. It typically takes three to six months to fully recover after implant placement.

Are immediate implants safe?

Immediate implants can be a safe and effective solution for those seeking a quick smile restoration. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved. One of the most common risks associated with immediate implants is implant failure. Though it’s estimated that only 5 to 10% of dental implants fail, it can happen if the implant doesn’t properly integrate with the surrounding bone or is subjected to too much biting force, stress, or pressure before fully healing.

Another potential risk of immediate implants is infection. Because the implant is placed immediately after the extraction, the site may not have had enough time to heal properly, which can lead to an increased risk of infection. However, proper care and hygiene can minimize this risk.

This said, immediate implants are generally considered a safe and effective option for those who qualify, but it’s important to discuss any potential risks and concerns with your dental implant specialist before proceeding with the procedure.

Not all dentists are the same; look for the best dental implant dentist in Virginia Beach.

When it comes to dental implants, not all dentists are created equal. Choosing a dental implant specialist with the knowledge and experience needed to ensure your procedure is a success is essential. At King Dental, we focus on providing full-service dental care with your entire family in mind. And we take restorative dentistry and the dental implant process very seriously. 

Dr. King and his team have years of experience under their belts, helping countless patients achieve their dream smiles. Our expertise in implant dentistry allows us to provide the highest quality care possible, ensuring that your procedure is successful and restoring your smile effectively and efficiently.

We also understand that every patient has unique needs and goals. That’s why we provide personalized care tailored to your requirements. We’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to develop the best treatment plan for you. With our commitment to providing personalized care and advanced technology, you can trust that you are in good hands with King Dental and on your way to a beautiful, healthy smile.

Learn more about immediate implants as a tooth replacement option for you.

If you have missing teeth and are considering immediate implants, now is the time to contact King Dental. We’re experts in dental implants in Virginia Beach and can help you regain the smile you lost along the way. Contact us today to schedule your immediate implant consultation.