Dental-Implants

Tooth loss is unsettling. Whether it comes suddenly—from a fall or fracture—or after a long battle with gum disease, the absence of a tooth leaves behind more than an empty space. It shifts the way we chew, speak, and even how we feel in public. And for many years, patients facing this issue were met with the same reality: implant treatment would take months. It meant living with gaps, wearing temporary appliances, and attending a series of appointments that stretched into the distant future.

That timeline is no longer inevitable. Same-day dental implants, while not new in theory, have reached a point where they’re not just possible—they’re predictable. For the right patient, it is now entirely feasible to walk in needing a tooth and walk out that same day with a confident, functional smile.

Why We Used to Wait

To understand how things have changed, it helps to revisit how implants were done in the past—and still are, in many cases.

Traditionally, the process would begin with an extraction, followed by weeks—or more often months—of healing. Once the site was stable, an implant would be placed, and then another few months would pass to allow the bone to integrate with the titanium post. Only after that was successful would the final tooth be placed.

It was cautious, and for good reason. Rushing risks failure. But in the hands of a trained team, with modern imaging and surgical planning, that caution no longer requires delay.

How We Do It Differently Now

With today’s technology, we can look at the bone before we ever touch it. Cone-beam CT scans give us a high-resolution, 3D image of the patient’s jaw, showing where the implant can be placed with the best chance of long-term success. Once we see what we’re working with, we design the case digitally.

On the day of surgery, the process is remarkably streamlined. If a tooth needs to come out, we remove it carefully. The implant is placed immediately into the bone. If the bone is firm and the implant is stable, a temporary crown goes on top—right then and there.

This isn’t just for appearances. It keeps nearby teeth from shifting, supports soft tissue healing, and lets the patient walk out with a smile that feels intact.

But Let’s Be Honest: It’s Not for Everyone

This kind of treatment is exciting, but it isn’t universal. Not every case qualifies.

Some patients don’t have enough bone. Others may have ongoing gum infections or health conditions that affect healing. In those situations, we take a more traditional path—and there’s nothing wrong with that. The goal is longevity, not just speed.

Even when we do place a tooth in one visit, it’s important to understand what that tooth is. The temporary crown looks good and functions gently, but it’s not designed to withstand hard pressure right away. We’ll ask patients to avoid chewing on that side for a bit. After a few months, once the implant is securely bonded with the bone, we replace the temporary with a final, permanent crown—custom-shaped, shaded, and polished to match the surrounding teeth.

The Benefits Speak for Themselves

What draws people to same-day implants isn’t just the time savings. It’s the experience of continuity. There’s no awkward waiting period with a gap, no need for a removable flipper. For many patients, that alone makes a tremendous difference.

There’s also a biological upside. Placing an implant right away after extraction can help preserve bone volume. The body treats the implant like a root, and that early stimulation helps avoid the resorption that often follows tooth loss.

Patients typically report feeling surprised—not just at how quickly the process moves, but at how little discomfort they experience afterward. With careful technique and minimal surgical trauma, recovery tends to be smoother than expected.

A Word on Materials

We use titanium for the implant itself. It’s the same material used in orthopedic surgeries—biocompatible, strong, and backed by decades of research. For the final crown, zirconia is often the material of choice. It offers strength and translucency, both of which matter when you’re trying to create something that doesn’t just function like a tooth—but looks like one too.

What to Expect Afterward

Once the temporary crown is placed, we monitor healing over the next few months. Patients come in for routine checks, just to make sure the integration is progressing as expected. During this time, home care matters. Gentle brushing, flossing, and avoiding excess force go a long way.

When the bone has fully integrated, we remove the temporary and fit the final crown. At that point, the process is complete—and the restored tooth should look and feel like it’s always been there.

One Day Can Change Everything

Tooth replacement doesn’t need to be a drawn-out journey anymore. For patients who qualify, same-day dental implants provide a safe, efficient, and lasting solution—with a restored smile from day one.

Curious whether this approach is right for you? Call (407) 777-2071 to schedule a consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, answer your questions honestly, and guide you toward the best path forward—for your health and your confidence.