Imagine you just had a molar yanked out (ugh, I know, not fun) and your dentist says you can get an implant, but it's up to you when. Do you guys think it's better to do it ASAP, like as soon as the socket heals, or is it okay to wait a few months or even longer? I keep hearing mixed things—some say if you wait too long, the bone shrinks and makes implants trickier (and pricier), but others say there's no rush unless it bothers you.
Honestly, I'm kinda torn. The idea of another surgery right after extraction sounds rough, but then again, I don't want my teeth shifting around or my jawbone doing weird stuff. Plus... the cost is no joke. My insurance barely covers any of it, so spacing things out might help my wallet recover. But then I worry about eating on that side for months or getting food stuck in the gap (which is already annoying).
If you've been through this—did you jump right into getting an implant? Or did you take your time? Any regrets either way? Also curious if anyone had issues with waiting too long and then needing extra procedures like bone grafts. Just trying to figure out what I'd regret less in the long run, you know?
If you can swing it, earlier is usually better. The bone starts shrinking pretty fast after extraction, which can make implants tougher (and pricier) down the line. I’ve seen people wait a year and end up needing bone grafts. But yeah, the cost and timing are real concerns... If you’re not ready, a few months probably won’t ruin your chances, but I wouldn’t wait too long unless you really have to.
If you can swing it, earlier is usually better. The bone starts shrinking pretty fast after extraction, which can make implants tougher (and pricier) down the line.
That lines up with what my dentist told me too. I waited about four months after my extraction because I just needed a break from all the dental stuff and honestly, the cost was a big factor. Ended up being okay, but I was definitely nervous about bone loss. Are you worried about the healing process or more about the financial side? It’s totally normal to need a little time before jumping into another procedure.
I totally get the need for a break—dental stuff can be exhausting, not to mention the hit to your wallet. For me, the healing process was actually easier than I expected, but the price tag made me sweat more than the surgery did. Did your dentist mention bone grafts at all? That was my backup plan if I waited too long.
I totally get the need for a break—dental stuff can be exhausting, not to mention the hit to your wallet. For me, the healing process was actually easier than I expected, but the price tag made m...
My dentist did mention bone grafts if I waited too long, which honestly made me pause. The cost is a big deal for me, too—spreading things out makes sense financially, but part of me worries about needing extra procedures down the line and ending up paying more anyway. I’m also not sure how comfortable I’ll be eating with a gap for months. It’s kind of a toss-up between letting my bank account breathe and just getting it over with before complications start stacking up.
