28 Mar What happens if you wait too long to get a dental implant?
Losing a tooth can be a traumatic experience. Not only does it affect your ability to eat and speak properly, but it can also have a negative impact on your self-esteem and confidence. That’s why many people turn to dental implants as a solution. But what happens if you wait too long to get a dental implant? Let’s explore the potential consequences.
Bone Loss
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone that once supported it begins to deteriorate. This happens because the bone is no longer being stimulated by the tooth’s roots. If you wait too long to get a dental implant, you may experience significant bone loss, which can make it more difficult to place an implant in the future. In some cases, bone grafting may be necessary to rebuild the lost bone and prepare the area for implant placement.
Shifting Teeth
The surrounding teeth may begin to shift into the empty space that once held a tooth. This can cause misalignment and bite problems, which can be difficult to correct. If you wait too long to get a dental implant, the shifting may make it more difficult to place an implant in the correct position, which can affect the success of the implant.
Gum Recession
Gum tissue around the area may begin to recede when there’s no tooth. This can expose the root of adjacent teeth and make them more susceptible to decay and gum disease. If you wait too long to get a dental implant, gum recession may make it more difficult to achieve a natural-looking result, as the implant may not be able to fill the entire space left by the missing tooth.
Compromised Oral Health
When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth and gums are more vulnerable to decay and infection. If you wait too long to get a dental implant, you may be putting your oral health at risk. In addition, the longer you wait, the more difficult and costly it may be to treat any oral health issues that arise.
How Soon Should You Get a Dental Implant?
The ideal time to get a dental implant is as soon as possible after a tooth is lost. This is because the bone and surrounding tissues are still intact and can support the implant more effectively. However, there are different types of implant placement options:
- Immediate Dental Implant Placement: This is when an implant is placed immediately after the tooth is extracted. This approach can reduce the risk of bone loss and help preserve the natural shape of the jawbone.
- Early Dental Implant Placement: This is when an implant is placed a few weeks after the tooth is extracted. This approach can still help reduce bone loss and preserve the natural shape of the jawbone.
- Delayed Dental Implant Placement: This is when an implant is placed several months after the tooth is extracted. This approach may be necessary if there is significant bone loss or other oral health issues that need to be addressed first.
The longer you wait, the more difficult and costly it may be to achieve a successful result. If you have lost a tooth or are considering having a tooth extracted, talk to your dentist about your implant options and the best timing for your situation. With the right care and attention, you can restore your smile and improve your oral health. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hage today by giving us a call at (619) 222-6000