- An immediate dental implant is placed into the socket of a newly extracted tooth in a single surgical procedure, offering a faster timeline compared to traditional delayed implants. This approach reduces the number of surgeries, preserves bone volume and soft tissue, and can provide better aesthetics by minimizing wait times for bone formation and allowing for an immediate restoration. However, it requires careful case selection by an experienced surgeon and may involve bone grafting if a significant gap exists between the implant and the socket wall.
How it works
- 1. Extraction: The damaged or unhealthy tooth is extracted.
- 2. Socket Preservation: The extraction socket is carefully managed to minimize trauma to the surrounding hard and soft tissues.
- 3. Implant Placement: A dental implant is immediately inserted into the fresh extraction site.
- 4. Bone Grafting (if needed): If there’s a significant gap (greater than 2mm) between the implant and the socket wall, bone grafting may be necessary to support the implant and prevent bone resorption.
- 5. Restoration: In many cases, a temporary crown can be placed on the implant during the same visit, allowing for immediate function and improved aesthetics.
Advantages
- Faster treatment: Reduces overall treatment time by eliminating waiting periods for bone healing.
- Fewer procedures: Requires only one surgery, which is more comfortable for the patient
- Improved bone and tissue preservation: Placement in the natural socket helps prevent bone loss and recession of soft tissues.
- Better aesthetics: Preserves the natural architecture of the extraction site, contributing to a more favorable cosmetic outcome
Considerations
- Case selection: Not all patients are good candidates; experienced surgeons must carefully assess the case.
- Jumping distance: A larger gap (more than 2mm) between the implant and the socket wall may require a bone graft.
- Risk of complications: Potential complications can arise, and appropriate surgical techniques are crucial to minimize them.
