What is an immediate implant?

With a conventional implant, the tooth is extracted and we wait several months for the bone to heal before placing the implant. With an immediate implant, the implant goes into the socket in the same visit as the extraction. It saves time and surgery โ€” but it isn't for every case. This guide was written under the supervision of Dr. Banan Alhawamdeh, specialist in gum surgery and dental implants.

Immediate implant, immediate loading, and "teeth in a day"

  • Immediate implant: the timing of placement โ€” right after extraction.
  • Immediate loading: fitting a temporary tooth on the implant the same day or within days, only if the implant is stable enough.
  • "Teeth in a day": a marketing phrase combining both โ€” but the final crown is not fitted that day; it comes after the implant integrates with the bone.

Who is a good candidate?

Immediate implants work very well in carefully selected cases, typically when:

  • The tooth can't be saved, but the surrounding bone is healthy and sufficient.
  • There's no extensive acute infection or large active abscess.
  • Good primary stability can be achieved when the implant is placed.
  • The gums are healthy and general health is controlled (e.g. well-managed diabetes).

With major bone loss, active infection, heavy smoking or uncontrolled conditions, a delayed implant โ€” sometimes with a bone graft โ€” is safer.

Advantages

  • Less surgery: extraction and implant in one visit.
  • Shorter overall treatment.
  • Preserves bone and gum at the site โ€” very important for appearance at the front.
  • A temporary tooth is possible in suitable cases, so no visible gap.

Steps

  1. Examination and planning with a 3D scan to assess the bone.
  2. Gentle extraction preserving the surrounding bone.
  3. Implant placement in the socket, with bone grafting of any gaps if needed.
  4. Temporary tooth or healing cap, depending on stability.
  5. Healing: usually 3โ€“6 months depending on the case and site.
  6. Final crown, usually zirconia.

Is it painful?

It's done under local anaesthetic, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. Afterwards there may be mild discomfort or swelling for a few days, managed with painkillers and aftercare instructions โ€” often less than having an extraction and then a separate implant surgery.

Why the gums matter

The gum around an implant protects it and gives a natural look; inflammation around implants is a leading cause of long-term failure. We assess and treat the gums before implants and monitor them afterwards. See our implant cost guide and types of dental implants.

Frequently asked questions

Are immediate implants as successful as conventional ones?

In well-selected cases, success rates are high and comparable. The key is choosing the right case and careful planning.

Will I leave with teeth the same day?

Sometimes, with a temporary tooth if the implant is stable enough. The final crown comes after the implant integrates.

How long does the whole process take?

Surgery is usually under an hour for one tooth, followed by roughly 3โ€“6 months of healing before the final crown.

Is it suitable for people with diabetes?

If diabetes is well controlled, often yes โ€” after a careful assessment.

Is an immediate implant right for you?

That can't be answered without an exam and imaging. At Dr. Banan Alhawamdeh's clinic in Sweifieh we assess bone and gums and tell you honestly whether an immediate or delayed implant is safer. See our dental implants service or book an appointment.

Note: this article is for general education and doesn't replace a clinical examination. The right treatment is chosen after assessing your case at the clinic.