How long after teeth extractions will I experience facial collapse? I have 15 teeth remaining and have surgery scheduled to remove all the teeth in July. I’m concerned about facial collapse and wonder how much time I have to get dental implants before my facial muscles have no support. I feel a little pressured by the dentist I saw to get immediate implants. However, I explained why that’s not an option for me. I can plan for dental implants, though. How much time do I have? Thanks, April
April,
Although a dentist may recommend removing all your teeth rather than restoring them, have you seen another dentist for a second opinion? A comprehensive exam and CT scan are required to determine whether any of your remaining teeth are savable.
How Long After Teeth Extractions Will You Experience Facial Collapse?
When all your teeth are missing, facial collapse occurs within ten to twenty years. However, if you plan to get dental implants, we encourage you to get them as soon as your budget allows. Dental implants prevent bone shrinkage and minimize the need for grafting procedures to stabilize your implants.
What If You Experience Facial Collapse?
If you experience facial collapse, it is usually reversible with bone grafting. A periodontist will measure your bone volume to determine whether it will support dental implants or how much grafting you need. After four to twelve months of bone graft healing, your jawbone can support dental implants and dentures.
Immediate implant dentures
Immediate implant dentures are placed on the same day as tooth extractions. Some patients still need bone grafting to support the dental implants. Without immediate implants, your jawbone will shrink. However, according to your budget, a periodontist can develop a treatment plan to place dental implants in phases.
Implant dentures
An implant denture helps support facial muscles and prevents future sagging that makes you look older prematurely.
Consult a periodontist for an evaluation of the condition of your teeth and whether they all need extractions. Afterward, the specialist can discuss tooth replacement options.
Dr. David Pumphrey, an Atlanta periodontist, sponsors this post.