After a tooth is extracted, do you need to have the implant right away?

It is best to have the implant placed in a timely fashion (2-3 months) after extraction to preserve the bone and avoid shrinkage that will occur after this period. If you can not have the implant done for extended period of time, then it is best to have the site grafted (site preservation graft), so you can have the bone preserved for later. Dr. Kazemi

The answer is that you do not have to have the implant right away after the extraction but you should have the site bone grafted immediately or with in 6-8 weeks. This way you will be able to save the delicate facial bone and maintian the boney ridge height and width that will be needed when you are able to move forward with the implant. In some instances if the remaining root has had root canal treatment and is not infected you could delay the extraction and just wear a flipper/ partial denture over the retained root. This will maintain the bone width and height until you are ready to proceed. Sincerely, David Furnari DDS