In this study, participants with one lower first molar that require removal and replacement using dental implants will be enrolled. The implant will be inserted 12-16 weeks after tooth extraction and restored either immediately with an artificial tooth (fixed implant crown) in 50% of the cases or 4 weeks later in the remainder 50%. Immediate and early loading will be compared and the investigators expect no difference in terms of implant success and health of the tissue around the implant.
Age ≥ 20 years
Willingness to sign informed consent and to participate in the study
Plaque index according to Silness and Loe of < 35% [26]
Presence of a mandibular first molar that has to be extracted
Any physical or mental disorder that would interfere with the ability to perform adequate oral hygiene or the capability of providing written informed consent and compliance to the protocol
Any disorder that would interfere with wound healing or represent a contraindication for implant surgery such as, but not limited to, uncontrolled diabetes or conditions resulting in or requiring immunosuppression, radiation, chemotherapy, frequent use of antibiotics or antiresorptive medication such as bisphosphonates
Pregnancy or lactation
Intention to become pregnant between inclusion and implant loading