Is a dental implant for #31 worth it or not?

Question

I am 27 and never had or will have, any wisdom teeth and #31 never came in as well.  I have always been told by previous dentists that eventually the top tooth will start to drop down and they will pull it.  I recently moved and my new dentist is pushing a dental implant.  Since this tooth has never come in, I wonder if the complications such as bone loss and teeth movement are as big of a concern or if its just the top tooth being pulled.  Is it worth me dropping the $2700 I've been quoted for an implant?

Answer 1

The fact that you are 27 means that you  will need to eventually address the problem that you have no second molar in the position of tooth #31 because you have a long life ahead of you and the opposing tooth will supraerupt.

Do you need to replace the missing #31?

No.

You can function perfectly well with your first molars as the last molar.

Will you have to extract the opposing tooth once it supraerupts and starts to create problems and discomfort?

Yes.

Is it worth it to replace #31 with an implant?

You have all the information you need to make a decision, but ultimately, the decision is yours.

Good luck!

Dr. Carlos Boudet
West Palm Beach , FL
(561) 968 6022
boudetdds.com

Answer 2

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I typically recommend replacement of the secon molars, providing there is adequate space and there is an opposing second molar in function. The second molars are important teeth in the chewing process and certianly should be replaced when possible. This will preserve your bite and position of the opposing teeth.

 

Dr. Kazemi

Dr. H Ryan Kazemi
Bethesda , MD
www.facialart.com