Am I a Candidate for Implants?

If you’ve recently had a tooth extracted or know that one needs to come out, you may be wondering about your options for replacement. Dental implants are one of the most natural-looking and effective ways to restore your smile. But timing is everything when it comes to making sure you’re a good candidate for an implant.

What Happens After a Tooth Is Removed?

When a tooth is extracted, the bone that once supported it begins to shrink. In fact, you can lose about 25% of the bone in just the first six months. If left untreated, that number can climb to up to 60% within the first year. This bone loss can make future implant placement more difficult or even impossible without additional procedures.

Why Timing Matters

Ideally, if you're a good candidate, the implant should be placed on the same day as the extraction. This helps preserve the bone and makes the overall process quicker and smoother. But if that isn’t possible, a bone graft may be necessary to preserve the area where the tooth was removed.

What If It’s Been a While Since the Extraction?

If more than a year has passed since your extraction, don’t lose hope. The site can often still be grafted to rebuild the bone and prepare it for an implant. However, each case is different. Sometimes, if there’s too much bone loss, grafting may not be possible or successful.

That’s why it’s so important to talk to your dentist. Advanced imaging and a thorough evaluation can help determine whether you’re still a candidate for implants.

Ask your dentist if you're a candidate for dental implants. We're here to help you restore your confidence and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.