Missing teeth can impact your confidence and oral health. That’s why Metrolina Periodontics & Dental Implants in Charlotte, NC offers same-day dental implants, an innovative solution designed to restore your smile in a single visit. Unlike traditional implants, which require months of healing between the extraction and placement, same-day implants combine these procedures, streamlining treatment and accelerating your journey to a complete smile.
Ideal Candidates for Same-Day Dental Implants
While same-day implants offer numerous advantages, they’re not suitable for everyone. Our periodontists and dental implant surgeons, will assess your unique situation to determine if you’re an ideal candidate. We’ll look for the following qualifications:
- Plans for Tooth Extraction: Same-day implants are a perfect solution if you’re already scheduled for a tooth extraction.
- Healthy Jaw Bone: A strong, dense jawbone is essential to support the implant and ensure long-term success.
- No Gum Disease: We’ll check for signs of gum disease, as it can compromise the implant’s stability and integration.
The Benefits of Same-Day Dental Implants
Opting for same-day implants with our experienced team provides a multitude of benefits compared to traditional implant procedures:
- Reduced Treatment Time: By consolidating extraction and implant placement into a single visit, you can enjoy a shorter overall treatment time.
- Faster Healing: Streamlined procedures often lead to faster healing and recovery.
- Minimized Bone Loss: Placing the implant immediately after extraction helps preserve the jawbone and prevent resorption.
- Improved Aesthetics: With same-day implants, you can leave our office with a restored smile and renewed confidence.
The Same-Day Dental Implant Process
Your periodontist and dental implant surgeon will meticulously plan your procedure, utilizing advanced technology to offer more precise implant placement. Following tooth extraction, the implant is carefully inserted into the socket, and a temporary crown is placed. Over time, the dental implant will fuse with your jawbone, providing a strong foundation for a permanent crown.
Same-Day Dental Implants FAQs
-
How Do Same-Day Dental Implants Work Compared to Traditional Implants?
Same-day dental implants place the implant immediately after the tooth is removed, so that you can leave the office with a temporary tooth on the same visit. With a traditional approach, the extraction and implant placement are completed in separate appointments with healing time in between. Same-day placement minimizes the number of visits and often helps preserve the natural shape of the gums. Your periodontist will evaluate your health, bone levels, and gum condition to determine whether the immediate approach is the best fit for you.
-
Are Same-Day Dental Implants as Strong as Traditional Implants?
Same-day implants follow the same biological principles as traditional implants. The implant still needs time to fuse with the bone, and that healing process happens below the gum line. While you receive a temporary tooth on the same day, full chewing force is not recommended until your implant has integrated. With proper planning and technique, same-day implants can be just as predictable as traditional implants when placed by trained implant surgeons.
-
How Do I Know If I Am a Candidate for Same-Day Dental Implants?
You may be a candidate if you need a tooth removed and have healthy bone, healthy gums, and no active infection. Your periodontist will review your medical history, take detailed imaging, and study the bone around the extraction site. If the area is healthy and can support an implant right away, same-day placement may be recommended. If not, your doctor will outline a plan to prepare the site for a secure implant placement in the future.
-
What Type of Temporary Tooth Will I Have After the Procedure?
Most patients receive a temporary crown or temporary healing tooth designed for comfort and appearance. This temporary tooth is not meant for chewing, but it maintains the look of your smile while your implant heals. Once the implant integrates with the bone, your restorative dentist will place a custom crown that matches your surrounding teeth.
-
How Long Does It Take for a Same-Day Implant to Fully Heal?
Although the implant is placed on the same day as the extraction, the bone still needs time to fuse with the implant. This process often takes a few months. During this time, your periodontist monitors healing and guides you through safe home care. Once the implant is secure, your restorative dentist places your final crown.
-
Can Same-Day Dental Implants Be Used for Front Teeth?
Yes. Same-day placement is often ideal for front teeth because it preserves the natural gum shape and allows you to avoid an empty space in your smile. Your periodontist will evaluate the bone and soft tissue to confirm whether immediate placement is appropriate for the area. When planned correctly, same-day dental implants can offer excellent cosmetic results for front tooth replacement.
-
What Happens If My Bone Is Not Strong Enough for a Same-Day Implant?
If the bone cannot support an implant immediately, your periodontist may recommend bone grafting. This strengthens the area and prepares it for a future implant. You will still receive a temporary tooth, so your smile remains complete while the area heals. Once the graft matures, your implant can be placed securely.
-
What Are the Risks of Same-Day Dental Implants?
Any surgical procedure carries some risks, including infection or changes in healing. With same-day implants, your periodontist evaluates many factors to ensure the site can support an implant immediately. Proper planning and advanced imaging help reduce risks and support predictable results. Your doctor will discuss all considerations with you so you feel confident in your treatment plan.
-
How Do I Care for Same-Day Dental Implants During Healing?
You will receive detailed home care instructions. Most patients follow a soft diet for a short time, brush gently around the area, and use a medicated rinse if recommended. Your periodontist will guide you through every step so you feel comfortable caring for the implant during healing.
-
Will I Be Able to Return to Work After the Procedure?
Many patients return to work the next day or within a few days, depending on the complexity of their treatment and their comfort level. You may experience mild swelling or tenderness during the first days, but these symptoms often improve quickly.
-
Do Same-Day Dental Implants Cost More Than Traditional Implants?
The cost depends on your specific treatment needs. While some patients assume same-day implants cost more, the combined approach can sometimes simplify treatment and reduce the number of visits. Your doctor will provide a detailed explanation of your treatment plan, including any factors that influence cost.
You’re in Good Hands With Us
At Metrolina Periodontics & Dental Implants in Charlotte, NC, we understand that undergoing surgery can be daunting. Rest assured, our doctors and team of experienced professionals are committed to providing exceptional care throughout your same-day implant journey. We’ll guide you through every step, addressing any concerns you may have and ensuring your comfort and well-being. Your smile is our priority, and we’re dedicated to helping you achieve the smile you deserve. Schedule a consultation today or call us at (704) 544-2224.