Dental Implants After Extraction:
How Soon Can You Get One?
Same day, 6 weeks, or 3 months. The right timing depends on your situation. This guide explains what determines it and why acting sooner preserves more bone.
Same day
immediate placement possible
50%
more bone preserved with immediate placement
From £28
per month with finance
The timing question everyone asks
You've just had a tooth extracted, or you know one needs to come out soon. The natural question is: how quickly can I replace it with an implant?
The answer isn't one-size-fits-all. Some patients can have an implant placed on the same day as the extraction. Others need to wait a few weeks or months. What determines the timing is the condition of the extraction site: is there infection? Is the bone socket intact? Is there enough bone to stabilise an implant immediately?
Here's how the three main timing options compare and how we decide which is right for you.
Three Timing Options Compared
| Immediate (Same Day) | Early (6-8 Weeks) | Delayed (3-6 Months) |
|---|---|---|
When it's used | ||
| No infection, intact socket, adequate bone | Minor healing needed, socket preservation done | Infection present, bone grafting required |
Bone preservation | ||
| Best (50% more bone retained) | Good (with socket preservation) | Bone may shrink during wait |
Total treatment time | ||
| 3-4 months | 5-6 months | 6-12 months |
Number of surgeries | ||
| 1 (extraction + implant together) | 2 (extraction, then implant) | 2-3 (extraction, graft, implant) |
Temporary tooth needed | ||
| Usually not (immediate temp crown) | Yes, during healing | Yes, during healing |
Suitability | ||
| 40-50% of cases | 30-40% of cases | Remaining cases |
| Immediate (Same Day) | Early (6-8 Weeks) | Delayed (3-6 Months) | |
|---|---|---|---|
When it's used | No infection, intact socket, adequate bone | Minor healing needed, socket preservation done | Infection present, bone grafting required |
Bone preservation | Best (50% more bone retained) | Good (with socket preservation) | Bone may shrink during wait |
Total treatment time | 3-4 months | 5-6 months | 6-12 months |
Number of surgeries | 1 (extraction + implant together) | 2 (extraction, then implant) | 2-3 (extraction, graft, implant) |
Temporary tooth needed | Usually not (immediate temp crown) | Yes, during healing | Yes, during healing |
Suitability | 40-50% of cases | 30-40% of cases | Remaining cases |
Immediate implant placement preserves up to 50% more bone than delayed placement
Research from the International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Implants shows that bone loss begins immediately after extraction. Placing an implant on the same day minimises this loss and provides the best foundation for long-term success.
Source: International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants
Side by Side: Immediate vs Delayed
What each pathway looks like in practice
Extraction + implant in one visit
Day 1The tooth is removed and the implant is placed into the socket in the same appointment. A temporary crown is fitted for front teeth.
Healing (osseointegration)
3-4 monthsThe implant fuses with the bone. You have a temporary restoration throughout. No gap, no adhesive.
Final crown fitted
Last visitYour permanent crown is placed. Treatment complete. One surgical procedure, minimal bone loss.
Tooth extraction + socket preservation
Day 1The tooth is removed. A bone graft may be placed to preserve the socket. The site heals with a temporary tooth.
Healing wait
3-6 monthsThe extraction site and any graft need time to heal and integrate. You wear a temporary solution during this time.
Implant placed (second surgery)
3-6 months laterOnce healed, the implant is placed in a second procedure. Another 3-4 months of healing follows before the final crown.
Extraction + implant in one visit
The tooth is removed and the implant is placed into the socket in the same appointment. A temporary crown is fitted for front teeth.
Healing (osseointegration)
The implant fuses with the bone. You have a temporary restoration throughout. No gap, no adhesive.
Final crown fitted
Your permanent crown is placed. Treatment complete. One surgical procedure, minimal bone loss.
Tooth extraction + socket preservation
The tooth is removed. A bone graft may be placed to preserve the socket. The site heals with a temporary tooth.
Healing wait
The extraction site and any graft need time to heal and integrate. You wear a temporary solution during this time.
Implant placed (second surgery)
Once healed, the implant is placed in a second procedure. Another 3-4 months of healing follows before the final crown.
Common Questions About Extraction and Implants
"I had a tooth pulled already. Have I missed the window for immediate placement?"
If your tooth was extracted recently (within the last few weeks), you may still be in the early placement window. If it was months ago, delayed placement is still very successful.
It's never too late for an implant. The timing of extraction matters for bone preservation, but implants can be placed at any point. The sooner you act, the simpler the process, but even years after extraction, techniques like All-on-4 work well.
"My tooth was extracted because of an abscess. Can I still get an implant?"
Infection at the extraction site is the main reason immediate placement isn't possible. The concern is that bacteria could compromise the implant.
Yes, after the infection clears. Typically 4-8 weeks of healing. Socket preservation can be done at the time of extraction to protect the bone. Once the site is infection-free, implant placement proceeds normally.
"Will I need a bone graft after extraction?"
Not everyone needs grafting. It depends on the amount of bone present and how the socket heals.
About 30-40% of cases need some form of grafting. Minor socket preservation is quick and can be done at the time of extraction. Major grafting is less common and adds 3-6 months to the timeline. A 3D scan gives us a definitive answer.
Find the Best Timing for Your Implant
Quick assessment to explore your options
Implants After Extraction: Your Questions Answered
How soon after tooth extraction can I get an implant?
It depends on the clinical situation. Immediate placement (same day as extraction) is possible when there's no infection and the bone socket is intact. Early placement (6-8 weeks) works when minor healing is needed. Delayed placement (3-6 months) is used when infection or bone grafting is required.
Is immediate implant placement better than waiting?
When clinically appropriate, immediate placement preserves up to 50% more bone than waiting. It also means fewer appointments and a shorter overall treatment time. However, not every extraction site is suitable. Your surgeon will recommend the best timing based on your specific case.
Can I get an implant if my tooth was extracted due to infection?
Yes, but usually not immediately. The infection needs to clear first, which typically takes 4-8 weeks. Socket preservation (bone grafting at the extraction site) can be done to protect the bone while the infection heals. Then the implant is placed into healthy tissue.
What is socket preservation and do I need it?
Socket preservation is a bone graft placed into the extraction socket immediately after the tooth is removed. It prevents the bone from collapsing while you wait for implant placement. It's recommended when immediate implant placement isn't possible, to maintain bone volume for future treatment.
Will I be without a tooth while waiting for my implant?
Never. For front teeth, we provide a temporary crown or bridge so there's no visible gap. For back teeth, temporary options are available too. With Vivo Bridge full arch cases, permanent teeth are fitted within 48 hours.
How much does an implant after extraction cost?
A single implant starts from £1,695, which includes the implant, abutment, and crown. If socket preservation or bone grafting is needed, this adds £400-£1,000. 0% finance from £28/month. See our payment options.
What Our Patients Say
Real stories from real patients who transformed their smiles with Dental By Design
I have nothing but admiration for Dr. Yasser—he is truly an implant artisan. After years of neglect and struggling to eat comfortably, I realised I needed a full-mouth restoration involving dental implants. Following extensive research, I chose Dental by Design and arranged a consultation with him. From the moment I met Dr. Yasser, he put me completely at ease, taking the time to explain every stage of the process clearly and thoroughly. He was totally non-judgmental and made me feel more like an old friend than a patient. A key part of achieving the best possible outcome is following the advice and instructions given while wearing the temporary implants and throughout the journey to the final fitting. The end result has been truly astonishing and has exceeded all my expectations. I cannot thank Dr. Yasser and his nurse, Mr. Ledio, enough. Both were absolutely amazing throughout the entire process, providing exceptional care, professionalism, and support from start to finish. I would highly recommend them to anyone considering dental implants or a full-mouth restoration.
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you so much, Yogesh. We are truly grateful for your kind words and for trusting Dental by Design with such an important treatment journey.
Dr Yasser and Ledio will be delighted to read your review. We are so pleased to hear that you felt supported, informed and cared for throughout the process, and that your final result exceeded your expectations.
We really appreciate you sharing it for other patients considering full-mouth dental implant treatment and thank you again for your recommendation and for choosing Dental by Design!
06/07/2026
I have been coming to Dental by Design for 2 years. This clinic is very different, they do care about the patients. I was terrified of dentists before, but I had fillings, a root canal and even an implant here. I have been coming now just for regular check up and hygiene appointments - Dr Yasser and Dr Luis are the best.
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Martin. We’re really pleased to hear that you have felt so well cared for during your time with us.
It means a lot to know that you felt supported enough to go from feeling terrified of the dentist to having fillings, root canal treatment, an implant and now regular check ups and hygiene appointments.
Dr Yasser, Luis and the whole Dental by Design team will be delighted to read your kind words. Thank you for your trust over the past two years. We look forward to seeing you again!
06/06/2026
Very professional, would recommend to anyone wanting or needing implants. I had my upper and lower full arch done. I was looked after very well and taken good care of. The price was also very reasonable.
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you so much for your kind review, Ivan. We’re really pleased to hear that you felt well looked after throughout your full arch implant treatment. Dr Yasser and the whole Dental by Design team is delighted that you had a positive experience and found the care, professionalism and pricing to be at the standard you expected. Thank you for your recommendation and for trusting us with your smile.
06/04/2026
I had an excellent experience at Dental by Design. The entire team was welcoming, professional, and made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked through the door. The staff took the time to explain everything clearly and ensured that all my questions were answered. The level of care and attention to detail was outstanding. The dentists were gentle, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about my comfort throughout the appointment. The clinic was clean, modern, and well-organized, which made the experience even more pleasant. I am very happy with the treatment I received and the results. It’s clear that patient care is a top priority at Dental by Design. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for high-quality dental care and a friendly, professional team. My dentist was Dr. Rob and i was extremely impressed with the level of care and professionalism I received. From the moment I arrived, they made me feel welcome and at ease. Dr. Rob took the time to thoroughly explain my treatment options and ensured that I understood every step of the process. His calm, gentle manner helped ease any anxiety I had about the appointment. What stood out most was his attention to detail and genuine concern for my comfort and well-being. He was patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about providing the highest standard of dental care. The treatment was carried out with great skill, and I was very pleased with the results. I truly appreciate the excellent service and care I received from Dr. Rob . It is clear that he values his patients and strives to create a positive experience for everyone he treats. I would not hesitate to recommend Dr. Rob to family, friends, and anyone looking for a trustworthy, professional, and caring dentist.
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Zee. We’re delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience with our team and that you felt welcomed, comfortable and well cared for throughout your visit.
Dr Rob and the whole Dental by Design team will be very pleased to read your kind words. We always aim to provide clear communication, gentle care and a high standard of treatment, so it means a lot to know this came across during your appointment.
Thank you again for your recommendation. We really appreciate your trust and look forward to seeing you again!
06/04/2026
Facilities and staff was second to none.great feel and stature about the place.my doctor made me feel at ease no judgement.the care and after care is class.those people have helped change my life
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you, Carl. We are glad you found our facilities and team second to none, and that your doctor made you feel at ease with no judgement. We appreciate your review.
06/04/2026
Just had my surgery done yesterday Everything went well has expected Dr. Yasser El-Ali know has Artisan was simply amazing. It was a dream come true the job you done. I also want to thank his nurse Adriana for all her patience and excellent care. I have no words to describe how happy I feel. I also want to thanks Livi for all the help explaining everything to make me have the surgery done with Dental by Design. A massive thank you for all the team at the clinic
Response from Dental By Design
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We are delighted to hear that everything went well with your surgery and that you felt supported throughout your journey with us. Dr Yasser El-Ali, Adriana, Livi and the whole Dental by Design team will be so happy to read your kind words. It means a lot to know that we could help make this dream come true for you. We wish you a smooth recovery and look forward to seeing your final results!
06/04/2026
I had a brilliant experience with Dr Yasser, having 16 teeth removed and all on 6 top and bottom, just had my final sets of implants fitted and I couldn’t be happier, it’s been an excellent very professional experience and I would most definitely recommend him to anyone thinking of implants.very patient especially if you’re a nervous person like me, he really did put me at ease. Dr yasser is a true Implant Artisan!
Response from Dental By Design
Hi Colleen, thank you so much for your wonderful review. We are delighted to hear that you had such a brilliant experience with Dr Yasser and that you are so happy with your final implants. Having treatment like this can feel like a big step, especially when you are nervous, so it is lovely to know that Dr Yasser helped you feel comfortable and at ease throughout. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we are so pleased to have been part of your journey
05/29/2026
I must apologise for not attending today’s appointment please keep the £25 deposit as I will not be continuing your offer.
Response from Dental By Design
Hi Steven, thank you for your message and for letting us know. We are sorry you were unable to attend your appointment and that you will not be continuing at this time.
We appreciate you considering Dental by Design, and we wish you all the best. If you ever have any questions in the future, please do not hesitate to contact the clinic.
05/28/2026
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