The Digital Immediate Implant Protocol
A scientifically sound immediate implant protocol consists of four defined steps — all digitally supported.
CBCT Analysis Before Extraction
The immediate implant protocol does not begin with extraction, but with 3D imaging. CBCT provides data on bone volume, alveolar wall thickness, bone density, and distance to anatomical structures. This data determines whether the immediate implant protocol is indicated.
Digital Implant Planning with Backward Planning
The implant position is planned backward from the prosthetic restoration. Intraoral scan and CBCT data are overlaid. The planning software calculates the optimal axis, depth, and dimensions — before the first incision is made.
Primary Stability Measurement as Decision Criterion
The immediate implant protocol requires a defined primary stability (ISQ value). If the value is below the defined threshold, the protocol is switched to delayed loading. The measurement is not optional — it is the objective criterion for the loading decision.
Immediate Restoration: Provisional from Digital Workflow
With sufficient primary stability, the provisional is digitally fabricated. CAD/CAM-fabricated immediate provisionals are more precise than chairside-made provisionals and reduce the risk of overload from occlusal contacts. The digital process chain enables fabrication on the same day.

Digital vs. Conventional Protocol
The difference is not in speed, but in planning precision and the objectification of decision criteria.
| Kriterium | Digital Protocol | Conventional Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Planning basis | CBCT + Intraoral scan + Backward planning | Often only 2D X-ray, manual planning |
| Primary stability measurement | Mandatory — ISQ value as decision criterion | Optional, often clinically estimated |
| Provisional | CAD/CAM-fabricated, controlled occlusion | Chairside, more variable fit |
| Documentation | Fully digital, reproducible | Variable |
| Error sources | Reduced by digital process chain | More manual steps, more variability |
Qualitätsstandards des Instituts
The Institute defines the following minimum standards for a scientifically sound immediate implant protocol:
CBCT analysis as mandatory step before every immediate implant planning
Backward planning: prosthetic position determines implant axis — not the reverse
ISQ measurement immediately after insertion — loading decision based on objective data
CAD/CAM-fabricated provisional with controlled occlusion
Documented recall protocol: ISQ control after 6 and 12 weeks
Questions from Scientific Perspective
Clinical Implementation
Immediate Implant by Protocol — Not by Preference
The immediate implant protocol is only indicated when CBCT analysis, primary stability measurement, and digital planning confirm the prerequisites. The clinical partner of the Institute, Smile4Life, performs indication assessment and restoration according to the described standards.
Kurz erklärt
An immediate implant is placed directly into the bone socket immediately after tooth extraction — with no waiting time. This saves time, better preserves bone, and can significantly shorten treatment duration in suitable cases. Not every patient is suitable — indication must be carefully assessed.
Wann ist das relevant?
- You had a tooth extracted and are wondering if an immediate implant is possible
- You want to keep treatment time as short as possible
- You are wondering if an immediate implant is as safe as a conventional one
- Your dentist has recommended an immediate implant and you want a second opinion
Passende Leitfäden
Fragen für das Erstgespräch
- Am I a suitable candidate for an immediate implant?
- What conditions must be met for an immediate implant?
- How does the success rate of immediate implants compare to conventional ones?
- When can I chew normally again after an immediate implant?
Hinweis: Die Inhalte dieser Seite dienen ausschließlich der allgemeinen Information und ersetzen keine individuelle zahnärztliche Beratung durch einen approbierten Zahnarzt oder Facharzt. Das Institut für Implantologie und digitale Zahnmedizin Wien ist eine gemeinnützige, unabhängige Wissenschaftsplattform — kein Behandlungsbetrieb. Alle Angaben entsprechen dem aktuellen Stand der wissenschaftlichen Literatur; individuelle Behandlungsentscheidungen müssen stets mit einem approbierten Zahnarzt getroffen werden.
