Missing teeth can affect more than just your appearance – it can negatively impact your overall quality of life. Some people may have a gap as a result of a dental emergency, and others because they had a tooth extraction. Whatever the case is, you need to replace that missing tooth to prevent complications down the line. Are you thinking about getting dental implants after tooth extraction? Here’s everything you should know about the process.
What Does a Tooth Extraction Look Like?
As you can imagine, a tooth extraction is when a tooth is completely removed from the mouth. This oral surgery is often necessary for teeth that are damaged beyond repair. Before your procedure, your mouth is fully numbed with local anesthesia to ensure you’re completely comfortable. If needed, dental sedation may also be used. The actual process for removing a tooth varies based on a few factors, like its location, whether or not it’s impacted, and the severity of the decay or infection. Your dentist may need to remove the tooth in pieces or take it out all at once by wiggling back and forth.
How Long After a Tooth Extraction Can You Get a Dental Implant?
Regardless of the tooth extraction method, you’ll need to wait a certain amount of time before you can get dental implants. Most patients are asked to wait at least 10 weeks following an extraction. While that may seem like a long time, it’s necessary to allow the jawbone and gums to heal properly. Once you’re good to go, you’ll be well enough to undergo a second oral surgery – your dental implant placement.
Preparing for Dental Implants
During your recovery from a tooth extraction, there are several things you can do to prepare for dental implants. Some of those include:
- Stocking your fridge and pantry with soft-food items (i.e., soups, soft breads, fruit, steamed vegetables, pasta, mashed potatoes, pudding, yogurt, oatmeal)
- Plan to have a trusted individual drive you to and from the dentist’s office on the day of your dental implant surgery. This is necessary because it may take some time for the effects of dental sedation to fully wear off.
- Make sure you take all medicines prescribed to you before the procedure, and get any prescriptions for after filled in advance of the surgery.
Rest assured – dental implants are always worth the wait! You’ll have a strong, healthy, and complete smile to enjoy in no time.
About the Practice
At Framingham Dental Group, we strive to create a welcoming, relaxing, and comfortable environment for our patients. Our team uses the latest technologies, techniques, and materials to ensure you get the best care possible. For any questions on getting dental implants after tooth extraction, visit our website or call (508) 872-0041.
