When Can You Get an Implant After Tooth Extraction?

One of the most common questions patients ask after losing a tooth is: “How long do I have to wait before getting a dental implant?” The answer is not always straightforward because the dental implant process depends on your gum health, bone density, and the reason for extraction. At Smile Center Turkey, our clinicians assess each patient individually to decide whether an implant can be placed on the same day or if healing time is required.

Understanding the timing options is crucial. Placing an implant too early in an infected site can compromise success, while waiting too long may lead to bone loss that complicates treatment. Let’s explore the main approaches.

Immediate Implant Placement (Same Day)

In some cases, a dental implant can be placed on the very same day as tooth extraction. This approach is called immediate implant placement. It is most suitable for patients who have:

• Healthy gums with no active infection
• Sufficient bone density and volume in the extraction site
• No severe periodontal disease or systemic health concerns

During this procedure, the dentist extracts the tooth and directly places a titanium implant into the socket. A temporary dental crown or bridge may be provided for aesthetics while the implant integrates with the bone.

Advantages of Immediate Implants

• Fewer surgical appointments – extraction and implant done in one visit
• Preservation of bone and gum contour for better aesthetics
• Immediate improvement in smile appearance
• Shorter overall treatment timeline

Challenges of Immediate Implants

• Not suitable if infection or gum disease is present
• Requires precise surgical skill and planning (CBCT scans & guided surgery)
• Initial stability of the implant must be high to support success

Early (Delayed Immediate) Implant Placement

Sometimes, an implant is placed not on the same day, but 2 to 8 weeks after extraction. This is known as early or delayed immediate implant placement. It is usually recommended when:

• The extraction site had minor infection or gum inflammation
• Soft tissues need time to heal before implant surgery
• The dentist wants to allow early stabilisation of the socket before implant insertion

This approach strikes a balance between preserving bone and ensuring infection-free healing. Patients avoid excessive bone resorption, while dentists get a safer surgical field for the implant. Often, early placement is combined with minor bone grafting to reinforce the socket.

Advantages of Early Placement

• Allows healing of soft tissues before implant placement
• Reduces risk of implant failure due to hidden infection
• Preserves most of the bone volume if performed within 8 weeks

Limitations of Early Placement

• Still requires a second surgery after extraction
• Patients may need a temporary denture or bridge while waiting

Delayed Implant Placement

In many cases, patients must wait 3 to 6 months (sometimes longer) after extraction before receiving an implant. This is known as delayed placement. It is often recommended when:

• The tooth was extracted due to severe infection
• There is significant bone loss that requires grafting
• Systemic health conditions slow down healing

During this waiting period, the jawbone naturally regenerates. In some cases, sinus lift or bone grafting procedures are performed to rebuild sufficient volume for stable implant placement.

Advantages of Delayed Placement

• Ensures complete infection clearance before implant placement
• Provides time for bone grafts or sinus lifts to integrate
• Predictable success rates in compromised sites

Challenges of Delayed Placement

• Longer treatment timeline (up to 6–12 months in complex cases)
• Patients may need temporary dentures during the healing period
• Bone resorption risk increases if no grafting is done early

Are Dental Implants Painful After Tooth Extraction?

One of the most frequent questions patients ask is: “Will it hurt to get an implant after extraction?” The reassuring answer is that dental implant surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia, sometimes combined with sedation, making the procedure itself painless.

After the anaesthesia wears off, patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or soreness in the treated area. These are normal healing responses and typically subside within a few days. Pain is usually manageable with prescribed painkillers and by following post-operative instructions carefully.

Tips for a Comfortable Recovery

• Apply cold packs to reduce swelling in the first 24 hours
• Avoid smoking, as it delays healing and increases implant failure risk
• Stick to a soft diet for the first week
• Maintain gentle but thorough oral hygiene around the treated area
• Attend scheduled follow-up appointments for professional monitoring

If severe pain persists beyond 5–7 days, or if you notice pus, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth, contact your dentist immediately. These may be signs of infection or implant misfit requiring intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How soon can I get an implant after extraction?

It depends on your oral health and bone condition. Same-day implants are possible in ideal cases, while others may require 2–6 months of healing before placement. At Smile Center Turkey, 3D scans help determine the best timing for each patient.

Q2: What if I don’t get an implant after extraction?

Leaving a gap can lead to bone loss, shifting teeth, bite problems, and aesthetic issues. Dental implants not only restore function but also preserve bone and facial structure.

Q3: Do I always need a bone graft?

Not always. Many patients have sufficient bone for immediate or early implants. In cases of bone deficiency, bone grafting or sinus lifts may be recommended for long-term success.

Q4: How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, dental implants can last 20 years or more. Many patients enjoy a lifetime of use, especially when they maintain excellent oral hygiene and attend routine dental check-ups.

Q5: Can I combine implants with cosmetic dentistry?

Yes. Many patients combine implants with Hollywood Smile makeovers, teeth whitening, or veneers to achieve both functional and aesthetic goals.

Conclusion: Smile Center Turkey’s Perspective

Getting a dental implant after tooth extraction is one of the most reliable ways to restore your oral health, chewing function, and appearance. Whether placed immediately or after a healing period, implants are designed to integrate with your bone, preserving stability and preventing further complications.

At Smile Center Turkey, our clinicians use digital diagnostics, guided surgery, and internationally recognised implant systems to ensure long-term success. Whether you need a single implant, a full-arch All-on-4 solution, or implants combined with aesthetic treatments, our team creates tailored plans for every patient.

Updated: 20 August 2025 — Modern implantology allows flexible timing, but choosing the right approach depends on clinical evaluation and personalised treatment planning.