With traditional dental implants, the process can take several months from start to finish. It involves multiple appointments, temporary teeth, and a whole lot of waiting. It's like cooking a fancy meal from scratch, where you have to spend hours prepping, cooking, and plating.
But with same-day dental implants, it's like ordering takeout. You can walk into your dentist's office with a missing tooth and walk out with a brand new implant and tooth replacement all in one day! It's like getting a delicious meal delivered straight to your doorstep without any of the hassle or wait time.
If you’re in need of a dental implant, same-day implants might just be the perfect solution. We’re about to take a look at what same-day dental implants are, how they work, and why they might be the right fit for you!
What Are Same-Day Dental Implants? A Quick Look
Same-day dental implants are a dental procedure that can give you a brand new tooth in just one day. It's like getting a tooth transplant, where your dentist removes your old, damaged tooth and replaces it with a shiny new implant - all in a single visit.
No more waiting for weeks or months to restore your smile - with same-day dental implants, you can walk into your dentist's office with a gap in your teeth and walk out with a full, beautiful smile.
While same-day dental implants might seem like a magical solution to all your dental woes, there is a catch. It requires a bit more maintenance and upkeep than traditional implants.
Because the implant is placed and loaded with a replacement tooth all in one day, it needs time to fully integrate with your jawbone. That means you'll need to be extra careful with what you eat after dental implant placement and how you brush and floss your teeth while it heals.
As well, not everyone's mouth is suited for this type of procedure. Your dentist will need to evaluate your oral health and the density of your jawbone to determine if same-day dental implants are a good fit for you.
But wait! Maybe you’re also confused about what the difference is between a dental bridge vs implant. A bridge connects your remaining teeth and also fills in the gap, while an implant is like a new tooth that's screwed right into your jawbone.
How Do Same-Day Dental Implants Work?
Same-day dental implants can give you a new tooth in just one day - sort of.
Here's how it works: your dentist will first evaluate your mouth to make sure you're a good candidate for same-day dental implants. Then, they'll remove your damaged tooth if needed and place a titanium post into your jawbone. This post acts like a root for your new tooth.
After the post is placed, your dentist will attach a replacement tooth to the post to complete your new smile. Although they're called "same-day implants," the entire process will take a little longer than just one day.
While you'll leave your dentist's office with a new tooth in place, it will take some time for the implant to fully integrate with your jawbone. You'll need to be careful with what you eat and how you take care of your new tooth while it heals. But the good news is the healing time for same-day dental implants is much shorter than traditional implants.
Two Types Of Same-Day Dental Implants
There are two types of same-day dental implants to accommodate those who have lost a single tooth and those who have lost multiple. Let’s take a look:
Single-Tooth Dental Implant
If you've lost a tooth due to injury or decay, a single-tooth implant can give you a brand new tooth that looks and functions just like your natural teeth. Your dentist will place the small titanium post into your jawbone and then attach a replacement tooth to the post. The surrounding teeth won’t be affected, making it a great option for those who need a single tooth fixed.
Full-Arch Dental Implants
Full-arch dental implants are also known as same-day full-mouth dental implants. They are a great option for people who have lost multiple teeth or even an entire arch of teeth. Instead of placing a single implant for each tooth, your dentist will strategically place a series of implants throughout your jawbone.
Then, they'll attach a custom-made denture or bridge to the implants, creating a strong, secure, and natural-looking set of teeth.
Benefits Of Same-Day Dental Implants
Judging by its name, there are many benefits of same-day dental implants that are appealing. Here are a few of them:
- Time-saving: Who has time to make multiple trips to the dentist for dental implants? With same-day dental implants, you can get a new tooth in just one day! No need to take time off work or rearrange your schedule.
- Convenience: Traditional implants require a healing period of several months before the replacement tooth can be placed. With same-day implants, you can leave the dentist's office with a new tooth in place.
- Improved Confidence: Missing teeth can cause a lack of confidence and self-esteem. Same-day dental implants can give you a brand new smile in just one day, boosting your confidence and helping you feel great about your appearance.
- Improved Oral Health: Missing teeth can cause the jawbone to weaken and deteriorate over time. Same-day dental implants act like natural teeth, stimulating the jawbone and promoting healthy bone growth.
- Better Eating Habits: Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat certain foods, leading to a limited diet. Same-day dental implants allow you to eat your favorite foods again without worry!
- Long-lasting: Same-day dental implants are a long-lasting solution for missing teeth. With proper care, they can last a lifetime!
- Cost-effective: While same-day dental implant cost may seem like a big investment up front, they’re an affordable long-term solution. They require less time and money than traditional implants, making them a great option for those on a budget.
Disadvantages Of Same-Day Dental Implants
Same-day dental implants sure do have many benefits, but there are also some potential disadvantages to consider. Here are some to keep in mind:
- Limited candidacy: Not everyone is a good candidate for same-day dental implants. Factors such as bone density and overall oral health can impact whether you are a good fit for this procedure.
- Limited options: Same-day dental implants typically use a pre-fabricated tooth, which may not be a perfect match for your natural teeth. This can impact the appearance and functionality of your new tooth.
- Healing time: While they’re a faster option than traditional implants, there is still a healing period required. During this time, you'll need to be careful with what you eat and how you take care of your new tooth.
- Implant Cost: Same-day implants are cost-effective in the long run, but they can still be more expensive upfront than other tooth replacement options.
- Potential complications: As with any dental procedure, there is a risk of complications such as infection or implant failure. Your dentist will discuss any risks with you before proceeding with the procedure.
Those Who Aren’t Candidates For Same-Day Dental Implants
If you fit under any of these categories, you’ll likely be a non-candidate for this same-day procedure:
Unhealthy Patients
The same-day dental implant procedure requires a certain level of health and well-being. If your immune system is compromised, your body may not be able to handle the procedure, and the implant may not heal properly.
Those With Gum Disease
Gum disease can cause damage to the gums and bones that support your teeth.
If left untreated, this can make it difficult for the implant to properly fuse with the bone, making same-day dental implants an unsuitable option.
People With Poor Oral Health Or Hygiene
Those with poor oral health won’t likely have a stable or healthy enough jawbone to support the implant. Tooth decay, periodontal disease, or other dental issues can weaken the jawbone and create an unstable foundation for the implant. In addition, people with poor oral health may be at a higher risk for complications such as infection or implant failure.
If your dentist evaluates your mouth and deems you unqualified, they may recommend other options. This might include mini dental implants for those with less bone density or improving your oral health before going ahead with the procedure.
Smokers
Smoking can have a significant impact on oral health and can increase the risk of implant failure. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can inhibit blood flow to the gums, which can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
Smoking can also weaken bone density, making it harder for the implant to fuse with the jawbone properly. For these reasons, smokers are not typically considered good candidates for same-day dental implants. And you guessed it - if you’re a smoker and are considering dental implants, your dentist will likely ask you to quit smoking.
Read our guide on Smoking and Dental Health
Patients With Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases, such as graves disease or multiple sclerosis, are conditions where the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body.
Unfortunately, this means that patients with autoimmune diseases aren't candidates for same-day dental implants.
This is because the implants rely on the body's natural healing process to bond with the bone in the jaw. With autoimmune diseases, the immune system is already compromised, and the chances of proper healing and integration of the implant are slim.
Those With Chronic Disease
Patients with chronic diseases may not be good candidates for same-day dental implants because these conditions can impact the healing process. For example, cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy can weaken the immune system and slow down healing. Obesity can also increase the risk of complications during and after the procedure. Arthritis can make it more difficult to tolerate the procedure and may impact the long-term success of the implant.
Those Who Deal With Bruxism
If you grind or clench your teeth, also known as bruxism, the pressure from grinding or clenching can damage the implant, causing it to fail. You’re not out of luck, though, as your dentist might recommend simply addressing it before going ahead with same-day dental implants.
Same-Day Dental Implants Vs Traditional Implants
Say you’re not a candidate for same-day implants just yet - what are the differences between them and traditional implants? We’ve outlined them below:
Same-Day Dental Implants
- Quick and convenient - You can leave the dentist's office with a new tooth in just one day!
- Limited healing time - While the same-day procedure will still require you to wait for the implant to fuse with your jawbone, the time it takes is significantly shorter than traditional implants. This is because immediately filling the site where the tooth used to be reduces the healing time.
- Requires more patient cooperation - You’ll save time not having to go to multiple dentist appointments, but this means that you’ll be left to take care of the tooth on your own and have to ensure you’re taking care of your oral health.
- Cost-effective - While same-day implants may be more expensive up front, they require less money overall than traditional implants.
Traditional Implants
- Longer healing time - The healing period will last several months before the replacement tooth can be placed. You'll need to make several trips to your dentist over the course of several months to a year, where the appointments will involve anything from x-rays to implant placement.
- More invasive - Traditional implants require a more invasive multi-stage surgical process. The implant is put into the jawbone and left to heal for several months, then an abutment is attached to the implant, and finally, the customized replacement tooth is attached to it.
- Better for complex cases - The traditional route is a better option for patients with complex dental issues, as they allow for more customization and flexibility. For example, those who require bone grafting can get that done before they go through the implant process.
The Cost Of Same-Day Dental Implants
Cost can vary based on the location of the dental practice, the experience of the dentist, and the materials used for the implant and replacement tooth.
Most of the time, same-day implants are often more expensive than traditional implants thanks to their convenience and efficiency. We’re talking around $4,000 - $5,000 per same-day dental implant compared to $1,500 - $6,000 per traditional implant.
Many dental practices have financing options or payment plans to make the cost of implants more manageable. Additionally, some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of implants, so be sure to check with your provider to see if you can snag some affordable same-day dental implants!
The Bottom Line
Same-day implants are an attractive option for individuals who need a quick and convenient solution to their dental needs - that is, if they’re a candidate for the procedure! It is important to be aware of the potential risks, benefits, and costs associated with this procedure before making any decisions.
Haven’t got enough dental implant knowledge and want to add more to your repertoire? Read on.
Are Same-Day Dental Implants Any Good?
The short answer is yes - same-day dental implants can be an effective and convenient solution for missing teeth. While traditional implants may be more suitable for some patients, same-day implants can offer several benefits, such as shorter treatment time and reduced discomfort.
Are Same-Day Dental Implants Safe?
The procedure is generally considered safe when performed by a skilled and experienced dentist. As with any dental procedure, there are some risks involved, such as infection or implant failure, but these risks can be reduced with proper care and follow-up appointments.
Can You Get A Dental Implant The Same Day As The Extraction?
It really depends on your unique situation and what your dentist recommends.
While some lucky folks can get their new teeth in just one day, others may need to have their oral health and bone quality checked first. Your dentist will be able to give you the lowdown and help you figure out the best plan for your smile.
Is It Possible To Get Same-Day Dental Implants?
If you’re a smoker, someone with poor overall health, poor oral health, or have a chronic or autoimmune disease, you won’t be qualified as a candidate for same-day implants. Same-day implants are only suitable for people who have good oral health and bone density and those who have the capacity to recover effectively.
How Successful Are Same-Day Dental Implants?
The success rate of same-day dental implants is pretty high, with many patients reporting positive results. Of course, the success of the implant depends on a few factors, such as the patient's oral health, the quality of the implant, and how well the implant is placed.
Do Same-Day Dental Implants Hurt?
Dental implant surgery is a type of oral surgery. And as with any surgery, there may be some discomfort involved. The good news is that many patients report feeling little to no pain after dental implants during or after the procedure.
Since the implants are placed immediately after the tooth extraction, there is often less swelling and pain compared to traditional implant procedures. But of course, every person is different, and some patients may experience more discomfort than others.
What Are The Dangers Of One-Day Dental Implants?
There are a few potential dangers associated with one-day dental implants.
Since it requires the patient to take charge of the healing process themselves, it could potentially lead to infection if proper care isn't taken. If the implant isn't placed properly on the dentist’s end, it could fail to integrate with your jawbone and fall out or cause damage to surrounding teeth.
Thankfully, these risks can be minimized by working with a skilled and experienced dental professional who will carefully evaluate your specific situation and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Do Same-Day Implants Fail?
While same-day implants can seem like a speedy solution, there's always a chance of failure. However, the success rate of same-day implants is pretty high!
Studies have shown that they are just as successful as traditional implants placed over multiple appointments. But ultimately, it all depends on the individual case and the patient's oral health.
