Implants & Full-Arch · 5-min read
Immediate vs. delayed implant placement: what’s the difference?
Clinically reviewed by Shivam S. Patel, DDS, AFAAID · Last reviewed September 27, 2026
The short answer
Immediate placement means the implant goes in at the same visit the tooth is removed. Delayed placement means the site heals first, sometimes with a bone graft, and the implant is placed later. At MCDI, full-arch cases with immediate placement typically reach final teeth in about 3 to 5 months, and cases placed after a healing period in about 5 to 6 months.
How the decision is made
It starts with a 3D CBCT scan, which shows the bone, nerves, and sinuses around the tooth. Dr. Patel plans the implant position against that anatomy before surgery. Whether an implant can go in the same day depends on what the scan and the exam show about the bone and the health of the site, and every plan is customized.
How long healing takes
Implants typically need about 3 to 4 months to heal into the bone. After upper back teeth are lost, the sinus can expand into the space they left, a process called pneumatization, which leaves less bone to hold an implant. When that happens, an internal (crestal) sinus lift done at the same time as the implant often adds no time beyond normal healing, while a lateral-window sinus lift typically needs about 6 months of healing.
Teeth while you heal
For a full arch, implants connected by one bridge support each other, which is why provisional healing teeth can often be attached the same day. For single teeth, whether you get a temporary tooth right away depends on the case.
Which approach is better?
Neither is better in general. The right choice is the one your bone and anatomy support, and Dr. Patel will explain why he recommends one approach for you, including how it affects your timeline.
This article is general education, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Your own plan comes from an exam, and if anything here differs from the written instructions Dr. Patel gave you, follow those.
FAQ
Can I get an implant the same day my tooth is removed?
Sometimes. Immediate placement depends on what your 3D scan and exam show about the bone and the health of the site. Dr. Patel will tell you whether your case qualifies.
How long does implant healing take?
Typically about 3 to 4 months. An internal sinus lift at the time of placement often adds no time; a lateral-window sinus lift typically needs about 6 months.
What is sinus pneumatization?
After upper back teeth are lost, the sinus can expand into the space they left, leaving less bone for an implant. A sinus lift rebuilds that bone.