What does “Immediate implant placement” mean?
Immediate implant placement means placing an implant into the site on the day the tooth is extracted. It describes placement timing after extraction, not completion of the final restoration or permission for normal eating that day.
Assess extraction and placement criteria separately
First establish whether the tooth can be saved and why extraction is needed. Decide on same-day placement based on remaining bone and gum, infection extent and stability at the planned position. Shortening the schedule alone should not determine extraction or placement timing.
Consider the socket and final restoration position together
Simply putting an implant into the socket is not the sole aim. Assess bone and soft tissues so the final restoration can be positioned appropriately, and plan grafting when needed. Bone defects or stability requirements may favour placement after healing.
Understand the stages beyond the day of surgery
Osseointegration, gum healing, provisional use, final restoration fabrication and maintenance still follow immediate placement. Findings during surgery can change the plan, so discuss an alternative provisional restoration and subsequent appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can everyone receive an implant on the day a tooth is removed?
No. Remaining bone and gum, infection and initial stability in an appropriate position must be assessed. If conditions are unsuitable, healing or bone reconstruction may come first.
Does immediate placement mean bone grafting is unnecessary?
No. Depending on socket and surrounding bone conditions and the required restoration position, grafting may be performed at the same time or in stages.
Check the extraction-day placement plan
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Preservation of natural teeth
What supports the decisions to extract and place immediately?
Explanation and evidenceFirst discuss tooth preservation and the reason for extraction. Then ask separately about remaining bone and gum, infection and initial-stability conditions.
ITI: implant placement and loading protocols - A choice suited to your condition
What happens if same-day placement is unsuitable or grafting is needed?
Explanation and evidenceDiscuss placement after healing or staged reconstruction, provisional and final restoration sequencing, and dietary and care instructions in the meantime.
CUH NHS: bone grafting for dental implants
