
When you’re dealing with a missing or failing tooth, choosing the right type of dental implant is key to restoring your smile and confidence. At Pacific Northwest Periodontics, you have access to advanced care from highly trained specialists who are committed to patient-focused solutions. Whether you’re interested in immediate dental implants or considering a traditional implant, understanding your options will help you make the best choice for your long-term oral health.
What Are Immediate Dental Implants?
Immediate dental implants are placed on the same day as your tooth extraction. This means you avoid waiting several months between tooth removal and implant placement. The process can help preserve your jawbone and minimize the number of dental visits. Since the implant is placed while the socket is still healing, it reduces the overall treatment timeline and gives you a quicker return to full function and aesthetics.
This option is ideal if your surrounding bone is healthy and strong enough to support an implant right away. It’s often used in highly visible areas where appearance matters most. However, not every patient is a candidate, and thorough evaluation is essential before proceeding.
What Are Traditional Dental Implants?
Traditional dental implants involve a more staged approach. First, the damaged tooth is extracted. After a healing period—typically lasting a few months—the implant is placed into the jawbone. Once it integrates fully with the bone, a crown is added to complete the restoration.
While the process takes longer, traditional implants are a reliable and proven solution. They’re especially useful when bone grafting or other preparatory procedures are needed to build a stable foundation for your implant.
Which One Should You Choose?
The right option depends on your oral health, bone condition, timeline preferences, and treatment goals. If you’re looking for faster results and have good bone quality, immediate implants may be appropriate. On the other hand, if your jaw needs time to heal or additional preparation, the traditional route may offer the best long-term outcome.
Your periodontist will evaluate your medical history, perform 3D imaging, and help determine which approach suits your needs. Both methods are designed to provide durable, natural-looking results that restore your smile and bite.
Take the Next Step with Expert Care in Seattle
If you’re exploring tooth replacement options in Seattle, Pacific Northwest Periodontics offers expert guidance and advanced implant solutions tailored to you. With a focus on patient-centered care, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Call (206) 575-1086 to schedule your consultation and find out which dental implant solution is right for you.