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Standard dental implants are arguably the best way to replace a missing tooth, but they can take time. If you need a way to replace a missing tooth quickly, then immediate dental implants might be just what you're looking for. Immediate implants work the same way, but can give you the results you're looking for in just one visit. Keep reading to learn more about this type of implant, what it can do for you, and how it works.

How They Differ

Standard dental implants and immediate dental implants use the same technique, but the process is a little different. Both types of implants require installing a metal screw into your jaw bone to keep the replacement tooth stable. Think of this screw as taking the place of your tooth root.

However, beyond the screw, the two implants differ. Standard dental implants typically have a long waiting period between having a tooth removed and an implant installed. This is to allow the bone to fuse and heal to provide the strongest foundation possible for a dental implant. This makes them a great choice for people who have been missing teeth for a long time, but not for those who just lost a tooth.

Immediate dental implants are installed - as their name implies - immediately after removing the tooth, or its remaining root if the tooth was knocked out. Generally, the process can be completed in one dentist visit.

What To Expect

Immediate dental implants need a strong jaw bone to be installed into, just like standard dental implants. As a result, your dentist will perform a series of x-rays to determine if your bone density is high enough to safely install a dental implant.

If the x-rays determine that your jaw bone is strong and healthy, your dentist will proceed with the installation. After clearing away the tooth and its roots, they will begin the surgical process of installing the screw. Once the screw is in place, they'll put a temporary tooth on top of it. This tooth will closely match your surrounding teeth and provide you with the smile you need right away.

Follow-Up

Your dentist will most likely want you to visit the office in a few weeks to install a new, permanent tooth on top of your implant. They will also most likely want to make sure that your implant is secure and healing properly. This process doesn't take long, and providing that everything is healing normally, you shouldn't need any additional surgery.

Immediate dental implants are a great option if you don't want to have a missing tooth for a long period of time. If you need your smile fixed right away, talk to your dentist to find out if immediate dental implants are an option for you. Visit a site like https://valleyoakdentalgroup.com/ for more information.