What are the potential problems of a missing tooth?

I have just had my first molar on the bottom left removed and my dentist has told me that I don't need to do anything about it. I have been researching missing teeth and discovered that there are tremendous problems associated with it like shifting or drifting teeth, bone problems, increased decay. My dentist told me not to worry as the teeth won't drift. I'm confused and worried. Should I visit a new dentist after the gum has healed to get a denture to prevent drifting? I can't afford a bridge or implant right now. Is it essential I do this as soon as possible, or was he right in saying I didn't need to do anything?

What are the potential problems of a missing tooth?
You are right on the money! You could end up with bone-loss, posterior teeth tipping forward, upper teeth drifting down.


Your best alternative is an implant, and it is something you can see an Oral Surgeon for anytime. The best part about an implant is that no other teeth have to be prepared and they are meant to last a lot longer than any other dental appliance we can fabricate.


A 3 unit bridge would mean the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth would have to be prepared (shaved down) to accept the bridge.


Some offices do make a small partial called a Nesbitt, but that can come loose and there is a potential risk of swallowing it.


If you have any other teeth missing a partial can be made.


A Maryland bridge has wings on either side of the missing tooth that are cemented into place but more offices shy away from those for a posterior tooth, too difficult to retain and made as only a temporary fix.


Get a second opinion and weigh out your options.


Good luck
Reply:It sound strange that your dentist didn't think it's a problem. , I would definitely ask for second opinions.
Reply:There is a risk of the teeth on either side of the tooth you had removed shifting into the now 'open' space, but it won't happen tomorrow...





Something called a cantilever bridge can be done... the expense is no more than a crown usually... and it's alot less expensive than an implant or a three-unit-bridge.





Instead of grinding down the teeth on either side to accomodate the 3UB, notches are put in the teeth on the side of the existing teeth facing the space instead. An impression is taken, and it is sent to the lab for processing after a color-match, or shade, is chosen.





The finished product looks like a tooth with a 'wing' on either side, which are used to get cemented into the notches...and it's permanent.





~just an alternative thought........good luck!





:)
Reply:Generally the teeth either side tilt, and the opposing tooth starst to over erupt... this is bad


I don't know if I can help you, but here goes. To find out everything you need to know about orthognathic (jaw correction) surgery, wisdom teeth surgery, implant dentistry, TMJ problems and anything really to do with facial and jaw surgery generally, you should go to www.dentalimplantsaustralia.com. The site is an Australian one, and deals with oral and maxillofacial surgery, and also with dentistry and orthodontics. Good luck! I hope that helps you.



flirt