Delayed Implant Placement in Lakewood, WA

In the world of dental restoration, faster isn’t always better. While “same-day” options are popular, many patients in Lakewood and Tacoma achieve their best, most long-lasting results through Delayed Implant Placement. At the office of Dr. Kevin Kim, DDS, we recommend this approach when the extraction site needs time to clear an infection or when the jawbone needs to be rebuilt to ensure the implant has a rock-solid foundation. By allowing the site to heal for three to six months before placing the titanium post, Dr. Kim ensures that the environment is perfectly primed for a successful, lifelong result.

The most common reason for choosing Delayed Implant Placement is to address bone loss or active infection. If a tooth was lost due to a severe abscess or advanced gum disease, placing an implant immediately could trap bacteria and lead to failure. As a specialized Dental Implant Periodontist, Dr. Kevin Kim prioritizes the health of your “foundation.” He often performs a Socket Preservation (a minor bone graft) at the time of extraction. This graft acts as a scaffold, encouraging your body to grow new, dense bone in the empty space. Once the bone is strong enough, confirmed by our CBCT 3D Imaging, Dr. Kim then proceeds with the implant surgery.

For our neighbors in Lakewood who have been missing teeth for a long time, delayed placement is often combined with more significant regenerative procedures like a Sinus Lift or Ridge Augmentation. This extra time allows the grafted bone to become a permanent part of your anatomy. When Dr. Kim finally performs the Computer-Guided Implant Surgery, he is placing the implant into “new” bone that is strong enough to handle the heavy pressure of chewing. While this path requires more patience, it significantly reduces the risk of complications and is often the best choice for patients with a history of smoking or osteoporosis.

We understand that waiting for a new tooth can be difficult. During the healing months, we can provide aesthetic temporary options, such as a “flipper” or a dental bridge, so you never have to worry about a gap in your smile while you’re out in the Tacoma community. To learn more about why delayed placement is sometimes the safest clinical choice, you can explore resources from the American Academy of Periodontology or the Mayo Clinic’s explanation of implant healing timelines. Dr. Kevin Kim, DDS is dedicated to finding the right pace for your specific health needs to ensure your smile stands the test of time.