Modern cosmetic dentistry offers two key approaches to implants as tooth replacement options. Traditional and immediate implants both use an artificial root and crown in place of the missing tooth, but differ in treatment methods and timing of phases. When choosing which suits your lifestyle, we’ll examine the distinction between the two types to help you make an informed decision.
What Are Traditional Implants?
The traditional implantation method involves waiting a period of time to insert the artificial root after a tooth extraction. The installation usually occurs a few months post-removal, once the socket has completely healed. This process is also referred to as two-stage or delayed implantation. The treatment comprises multiple phases, with breaks in between each phase for healing.
Phase 1 – tooth extraction and healing. We start by removing the impaired tooth. We give the gum time to heal and to regenerate healthy bone tissue, which is usually between three and five months. Some individuals may require a bone graft to ensure sufficient volume.
Phase 2 – installing the implant. Once healed, we place the titanium implant into your jawbone under local anaesthetic. A small gum incision and precise drilling secure it comfortably in place.
While this is healing, we may provide a temporary plate, depending on the area in the mouth, which doesn’t affect the implant.
Phase 3 – healing and bone fusion. After inserting the screw, we give the bone time for the osseointegration process to occur. This can last between three and six months, depending on the bone density. We may also install a healing abutment during this stage.
Phase 4 – abutment and prosthetics. After implant integration, we perform a minor procedure where we open the gum to install the abutment. The tissue will heal around this device, forming the gingival contour (the sculpted edge and profile of the gingival (gum) tissue where it meets the teeth. We then take impressions to make your final crown. Once this prosthetic is ready, we fit it to the abutment to conclude your traditional implant process.
Traditional implants are extended over months, and in some cases, even years. The majority of this time involves healing and fixture integration. Although it’s an extensive process, this method allows thorough preparation for ideal results.
What Are Immediate Implants?
Immediate dental implants are installed directly after we extract a tooth, during the same appointment. This method, also known as single-stage implantation, implants a screw into the same socket where the extraction takes place. We also install a temporary crown immediately, so you leave your appointment with a complete tooth.
The point of immediate implant dentistry is to reduce the period between tooth loss and replacement. The implants instantly integrate into the fresh socket, which can help preserve bone tissue and prevent volume reduction. You will also benefit aesthetically, especially if the tooth is visible when smiling or speaking.
We primarily use implants designed with optimised threading that provide solidity. A high chance of successful integration depends on a tightly fixed implant, and our state-of-the-art technology allows for successful osseointegration. It’s important to note that immediate implants aren’t suitable for everyone, and we evaluate the conditions before starting treatment.
The team first conducts an X-ray to plan the implant with our software. We then remove the tooth, preserving as much of the surrounding tissue as possible. We select a suitably-sized implant and install it into the socket. If we achieve a satisfactory fixation, we can immediately add the abutment and the temporary crown.
The singular procedure is a primary benefit of this implant method, meaning fewer surgical manipulations and ultimately, faster results.
Benefits of Traditional Implants
Traditional implants remain a trusted option with a long clinical history and predictable performance across a wide range of cases. They offer a well-established approach that many professionals rely on for consistent outcomes.
- High success rate – backed by years of practice, gives this method high integration rates. The installation into a fully-formed bone lowers the risk of failure, resulting in a 97% - 99% success rate.
- Sufficient preparation time – the breaks between each phase allow us to prevent infection, build bone, and form adequate gums. Creating optimal conditions delivers favourable outcomes.
- Less force during healing – since we place the implant into unloaded bone and close the gums over it, we prevent chewing forces until full integration occurs. This reduces the risk of micromovement and promotes reliable fusion.
- Versatility in prosthetics – this method allows for more time for adjustments during the prosthetics stage. We can change your gum contours or use individual abutments to maximize cosmetic appeal.
Benefits of Immediate Implants
Immediate implants offer a modern approach that aligns efficiency with clinical precision in selected cases. Many aesthetic dentists choose this method to streamline treatment.
- Short treatment period – the short duration for this method is significantly less than the classic approach. Patients can enjoy a complete solution all in one appointment. This is especially beneficial when individuals need a front tooth restoration without the wait.
- Minimal surgery – a simplified surgical procedure allows for a single operation for most of the implant process. No need for multiple painful interventions, equating to less stress and downtime.
- Immediate results - implant timing is essential with front teeth. You’ll leave your appointment with a temporary crown that restores your natural smile. This caters to aesthetic and psychological issues of missing teeth.
- Preserves bone and gums – immediate installation prevents bone atrophy. The implant seals the socket and diffuses practical load to the bone to stimulate its protection. The process also stabilizes gum contours for a natural look.
- Cost-efficient – fewer appointments mean cost and time savings for you. New-age technology allows for a faster overall process and high predictability.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Traditional Implants?
Choose traditional implantation when infection or inflammation exists in the extraction area, such as cysts or periodontitis. We’ll first treat the infection and allow bone healing before placing the implant. This approach also suits cases with significant bone loss, where grafting and several months of integration ensure stability.
Traumatic extractions with damaged socket walls or fractures benefit from delayed placement until complete recovery. Patients with thin gums, high smile lines, systemic conditions, or smoking habits heal more predictably with this method. It also fits patients who prefer a slower process for dependable, long-term outcomes.
Who is a Good Candidate for Immediate Implants?
A good candidate for immediate implants has a healthy tooth socket after a successful extraction, without infection, inflammation, or significant bone damage. Adequate bone volume and density must support primary implant stability, which often occurs in dense frontal lower jaw bone. Thick, fibrous gums adapt better around the implant and reduce recession risk.
Patients with high aesthetic expectations often prefer immediate placement with a temporary crown, especially in the smile zone. This approach also suits patients who want fewer surgical procedures. Overall health and well-controlled medical conditions support predictable healing and successful outcomes.
Choose the Right Implant Approach for Your Needs
Deciding on the most suitable implant method comes down to your requirements and physical capabilities. While both styles demonstrate effectiveness, each provides its own set of benefits. Booking a consultation with us can determine whether traditional or same-day implants in our Tarzana practice will suit your needs. Together, we can choose the implant approach that offers the best balance of comfort, aesthetics, and long-term results.