For more than 40 years, dental implants have been used to replace missing teeth, often with more practical and aesthetically pleasing results than removable or fixed partial dentures. In fact, the success rate for implants rivals or exceeds that of fixed partial dentures. However, many dental practices and patients have avoided implants because, traditionally, the treatment process took a long time — sometimes requiring multiple dental visits over three to twelve months.
In recent years, there has been a rise in the number of practices utilizing immediate implant placement and immediate loading. These techniques offer quite a few benefits for both dentists and patients. They reduce the number of visits needed and shorten the length of time it takes for patients to have their implant in place.
What Are Immediate Implant Placement and Immediate Loading?
Before an implant can be inserted, the natural tooth must be extracted if it is still present. Immediate implant placement is the process of placing the implant at the same time of tooth extraction. This means the implant is placed in a fresh socket. Over the years, utilizing this procedure has shown high survival rates for the dental implant.
The process of immediate implant loading involves placing a restoration within 48 hours after the implant has been placed. This procedure can only be applied if primary stability is established. Immediate loading is also referred to as immediate function or immediate provisionalization.
Benefits for Both Dentists and Patients
Immediate implant placement and immediate loading are techniques that were developed in response to patients’ growing for quicker treatment. After all, who wants to spend a significant amount of time with a gap in their dentition? However, besides this obvious advantage, there are many benefits for both dentists and patients of immediately introducing an implant after the tooth is extracted. This includes:
- Shorter Treatment Time: When restorations are introduced on the day of the extraction, this significantly reduces the time needed for treatment.
- Good Predictability: As with any dental procedure, predictable results are highly desirable. Utilizing these procedures reduces the risk of further surgical intervention because of complications that could arise between dental visits, such as resorbed ridges.
- Simplified Surgical Workflow: A one-stage technique allows for a simplified surgical experience, with all necessary preparation happening before the procedure is applied.
- High Patient Satisfaction: When a patient only has to undergo one procedure, they achieve the desired aesthetic results quicker. It also improves their postoperative experience when they have to endure fewer surgeries.
- Unique Selling Point For Your Dental Practice: Promoting immediate implant placement and immediate loading can become an integral part of your practice’s marketing strategy, setting your office apart.
Factors to Consider Before Utilizing Immediate Implant Placement and Immediate Loading
As with any dental procedure, there are factors that both dentists and patients should consider before utilizing these techniques. There are a few things that can influence the outcome of success. However, these are relevant not just to immediate loading but any type of implant treatment. Factors to consider include:
- Careful patient selection
- Bone quality and quantity
- Initial stability
- Proper treatment planning ahead of time
- Precise implant placement
- Allowing for adequate healing time following the procedures
Choose the Right Implant System
Choosing the right dental implant system is essential to the predictability and long-term success of immediate placement and immediate loading. With our state-of-the-art dental implants and other products, Hiossen® Implants are the right choice for any dental practice. Contact us today to speak to a representative.
