Delayed Versus Immediate Dental Implants — Which Is Right for You?

Although there are several tooth replacement solutions that you can discuss with your dentist from dental bridges to dentures, none offers as permanent a solution as dental implants. Dental implant surgery has progressively become the top choice for patients that have lost one or more teeth since the results will look identical to their natural teeth. Moreover, since one does not have to replace the implant every other decade, dental implants are the more cost-efficient solution for the long run.

One important decision that needs to be made when you choose dental implants is whether to opt for the delayed technique of the immediate option. Each technique offers its pros and cons and they are dependent on your oral health. This blog summarizes what you need to know about these techniques so you can discern what is right for you.

What is the difference between delayed and immediate dental implants?

Delayed implants refer to a loading procedure that will take about half a year for the implant to assimilate with your jawbone. The first step the dentist takes is creating a surgical flap in the gums so that the implant can be placed into the jawbone. After suturing the flap, you will go home without the prosthetic tooth so that osseointegration can occur. After the period the dentist specifies is complete, you go back in for the prosthetic to be incorporated into the implant.

Immediate dental implants, conversely, are completed in a couple of days. Rather than wait for osseointegration to occur, dental implant surgery and the addition of the prosthetic tooth is concluded much faster.

Which treatment path would be ideal for your replacement treatment?

Before you and your dentist can determine the best loading technique for your dental implants, the several factors need to be taken into consideration. For starters, your expectations regarding aesthetics. Granted, dental implants are a sought after replacement therapy for lost teeth due to their natural appearance.

Nevertheless, when this can be achieved is dependent on the loading technique. If the lost teeth are not easily visible when talking or smiling, you could opt for the delayed implants. This approach is especially beneficial for molars, as the implants get time to stabilise completely. On the other hand, if you lost your front teeth, immediate implants will be the best solution.

Secondly, the health of your jawbone and soft tissue have to be taken into account. If bone grafting has to happen to support the implant, the delayed technique will be the best course of action. Take note, if your gums and jawbone have deteriorated considerably, dental implant surgery may not be an option for you.

For more information on dental implants, companies like Graeme Westacott can help.  


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