Dental Implant Years After Extraction

Dental Implant Years After Extraction?

Once your tooth or teeth were extracted, your dentist likely recommended an immediate replacement. Even if this was the case, you may not have been able to get it. Maybe it was a cost issue or an insurance issue. You may have just been nervous about the procedure. Whatever the case may be, you should consider getting a replacement now. One option is a dental implant or implants.

Can I Get Dental Implants Placed Years After Extraction?
Yes. Even if it’s been years after you’ve had your tooth or teeth extracted, you may still be a candidate for dental implants.
The main factor will be the integrity of your jawbone, as implants need to be placed in a healthy jawbone that is able to handle them. With that said, if your jawbone has deteriorated to the point where dental implants aren’t possible, you may be a candidate for a bone graft.
During a bone graft procedure, bone is removed from a different area of the body, a cadaver or an animal. This bone is then placed in the area where your jawbone has deteriorated. Once your jawbone heals, the implant can be placed.
If you aren’t able to afford this procedure, you may consider other, non-surgical options for teeth replacement.

What Happens if I Don’t Replace My Missing Teeth?
Even if it’s been years since an extraction, it’s still important to have a dental implant installed for the safety of your teeth, gums and jawbone. Below are a few of the reasons you’ll want to consider having your missing tooth or teeth replaced:
* Increased health risk. Whether it’s been a few months or a few years, your teeth and gums may be at risk when you have missing teeth. Teeth shift over time to fill the gap, which can make it much more difficult to brush and floss. This can lead to gum disease, gingivitis and worse.
* Lower confidence. Having a gap in your teeth isn’t pleasant—especially with your front teeth. This can lower your confidence and self-esteem.
* More teeth loss. With the damage done to your healthy teeth due to not having dental implants or another form of replacement placed, you may end up needing another extraction.
* Bone loss. Over time, your jawbone will likely deteriorate. This may lead you to need a bone graft, which can be expensive.

Implant Options
There are different types of dental implants that may be available to you. These include:
* Implant bridges
* Implant-supported dentures
* Single dental implants

Which Type of Dental Implant is Right for Me?
If it’s been years since your extraction, you may think having your tooth or teeth replaced is a lost cause. It’s not! You should still consider teeth replacement options like dental implants. Set an appointment with your dentist so they can take a look at your teeth, gums and jaw. From there, they can determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.