Dec 2, 2025
How Long After Extraction Can You Get an Implant?
By Dr. Raheel Thobhani, DMD
If you are facing a tooth extraction, your mind is likely already on the next step: filling the gap. You know that a dental implant is the best permanent solution, but the timing can be confusing. Can you get it done the same day? Do you have to wait for the gum to heal? Or do you need to wait months for the bone to grow?
At Smyrna Dental Studio, we believe that timing is everything. Placing an implant at the precise right moment is critical for its long-term success and aesthetics. This guide will break down the three main timelines for implant placement and help you understand which one applies to your smile.
Scenario 1: Immediate Implant Placement (The "Same-Day" Approach)
This is the ideal scenario for many patients, especially for visible front teeth.
The Process: We gently extract the tooth and place the titanium implant post into the fresh socket during the same appointment.
When it's possible: This requires a "perfect storm" of conditions: there must be no active infection (like an abscess), and there must be sufficient, strong bone remaining around the socket to hold the implant tight.
The Benefit: You undergo only one surgical procedure and start the healing clock immediately.
Scenario 2: Early Placement (2-3 Months Post-Extraction)
Sometimes, we need to give the soft tissue (gums) a little time to heal before placing the implant.
The Process: We extract the tooth and let the gums heal over the socket for about 8-12 weeks.
When it's used: This is common if there was a minor infection or if the gum tissue was damaged during the extraction or injury. It allows us to ensure the infection is gone and the gums are healthy enough to support the implant procedure.
Scenario 3: Delayed Placement (4-6 Months Post-Extraction)
This is the most common timeline for back teeth or teeth that were severely infected.
The Process: We extract the tooth and immediately perform a procedure called socket preservation (a bone graft) to fill the empty space. We then wait 4-6 months for that graft to turn into solid, healthy bone before placing the implant.
When it's used: If the tooth had a large abscess that destroyed the surrounding bone, or if the jawbone is naturally thin, we must rebuild the foundation first. Placing an implant into infected or weak bone is a recipe for failure.
Why You Shouldn't Wait Too Long
While there are clinical reasons to wait a few months, waiting years is generally not recommended.
The Risk: Once a tooth is removed, the jawbone begins to shrink (resorb) because it is no longer being stimulated.
The Consequence: If you wait too long, you may lose so much bone volume that you will require more extensive, expensive, and invasive bone grafting procedures to become a candidate for implants again.
FAQs: Your Implant Timeline Questions Answered
Will I have to walk around with a missing tooth while I wait?
Never. Regardless of which timeline you fall into, we will always provide you with a temporary tooth replacement. This could be a removable "flipper," a temporary bridge, or an Essix retainer. You will never have to leave our office with a visible gap in your smile.
Is it more painful to do the extraction and implant on the same day?
Actually, it is often less painful. By combining the procedures, you only have to undergo anesthesia and the healing process once. It also preserves the natural gum contours better than doing it in two stages.
I had a tooth pulled 10 years ago. Is it too late?
It is almost never too late, but the process will be different. You have likely experienced significant bone loss in that area over the decade. You will almost certainly need a bone graft first to rebuild the ridge, followed by a healing period, before we can place the implant.
Does a bone graft add to the cost?
Yes, a bone graft is a separate procedure with its own cost. However, it is often the most critical investment you can make to ensure your implant lasts a lifetime. We will provide a full, transparent breakdown of all costs during your consultation.
Timing is Key to a Lasting Smile
Whether you are a candidate for an immediate implant or need a little time to heal and rebuild, the goal is always the same: a safe, predictable, and permanent result. The only way to determine your specific timeline is to see what your bone looks like today.
Don't guess about your timeline. Let us give you a clear plan.
If you need an extraction or have a missing tooth, contact Smyrna Dental Studio today to schedule your consultation and 3D scan.
