Expert: Rafael Mosery,D.D.S. - 4/15/2007

Question
When a molar has to be pulled because its root is cracked, how long before you can put in an implant? If there is no infection can an implant be placed and bone grafting at the same time or does grafting material go in first then a waiting period?

Answer
I prefer to wait about six weeks for re-entry in molar areas.If there are bone deficiencies that have to be addressed and a graft is being placed then reentry will be 5-8 months optimally.If I just want to augment the existing bone slightly then I would place the implant and graft simultaneously at the 6 wk interval mentioned above. It's a judgment call on behalf of the clinician at the time of surgery but these are rough guidelines if someone wants to talk shop.