How long can a tooth socket be vacant (due to extraction)before a dental implant is no longer a viable option?

Question

I thought I read that there is a time limit on how long a socket has been "empty."

Answer 1

There is no limit. The limiting factors are: bone width, space available between existing teeth, bone density, and medical status. If your space is between 2 teeth, the longer it goes unfilled, the greater the chances of it closing up too much to be able to place an implant. Also, smoking and diabetes are 2 strikes against you with implants. A 3rd strike in any of the above mentioned areas makes implant failure almost a certainty. I hope this answers your question.

Answer 2

The doctor can do bone grafting and an implant will always be an option. My husband just took a course to put implants (he is a dentist) and they teach dentist how to prepare an area before putting an implant. To save yourself some time and a lot of money tell your dentist that you want an implant in that area before he extracts the tooth so he can put something there to keep that area from caving in.

Answer 3

Generally, the socket will close up in a matter of 3 weeks to a month. It may, however, be reopened by means of surgery, which is not a popular choice.

I know the first part through removal of wisdom teeth.

Answer 4

Implants are not covered by insurance. They fall out easy, are expensive, and are more trouble than they are worth. Why not wait until dentures are needed? A night guard can help keep the teeth where they are and from collapsing until a denture in needed.