Immediate dental implant placement refers to when teeth are extracted and the implants are placed at the same time. While this saves time and number of procedures, it is not for everyone. There are circumstances when it is best to extract the teeth first and then place the implants in delayed fashion. The main reason is to achieve a healthy bone and soft tissue condition before implants are placed which will increase success and minimize complications such as peri-implantitis.
Avoid immediate implant placement in the following circumstances:
- Presence of active gum disease (periodonal disease)
- Presence of infection or abscess
- Inadequate bone
- Presence of cysts of other forms of pathology
- Smokers
In these situations, it is best to extract the teeth, treat the infection or restore the bone, and then allow the sites heal for 2-3 months before placement of the implants. This will assure better long-term success.
Dr. H. Ryan Kazemi is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Bethesda, MD