Need to have upper left first molar extracted, what are my replacement options? i know that one of them is an implant, but i don't think i would be able to afford that. another option i was looking into was a bridge. i know there are 2 types of bridges. o

New : New haven, it is always tough to answer any question after dr. Mcleod, his answers pretty much say it all. Options for a missing first molar: it boils down to something that is taken in and out called removable, something that stays in all the time called fixed, or leaving a space which is not a good option and can lead to a bunch more future problems. Removable options include a long term partial denture. This will be your least expensive and least like natural teeth. A further removable option is a snap-it appliance. This is still comparably low cost but is much more like natural teeth. However, it will not last nearly as long as a traditional partial denture. Fixed options include an implant which will be the most costly but tends to last the longest and will not effect adjacent teeth. However, an implant from start to finish will require numerous visits usually over 4-6 months. Then there are many variations of a 3-unit bridge when done correctly should last decades but will effect adjacent teeth. This can usually be accomplished over 2 weeks, start to finish. Once in a bridge should not be removed to recement. Cantilever is out if you want something that will last and not potentially cause other significant issues. Each option has unique positives, negatives, risks, and benifits. Consultation with your trusted quality dentist is ideal for you to choose the right option for you. Hope this is helpful, michael i. Wollock, dmd, agd fellow dentistry at suburban square 610-649-0313 www.Dentistryatsuburbansquare.Com.

There : There are three options that you might consider, the removable partial, the fixed bridge or the implant. First accepting that doing nothing is not an option, a, because it leaves a gap, ANS b, because the teeth behind will drift forwards and the opposing tooth will over erupt into the missing space. The partial denture. A small removable partial denture can be made that will comfortably fit and will serve you for years. I make them with gold frames and clasps and acrylic gum work and teeth. The bridge is the next option, and you correctly state that it might fail and need replacing. You talk about getting it re-cemented, and that is not necessarily a viable option. The bone will recede under the pontic and unlike the partial which can be relined, the bridge has to be remade. In addition you might be cutting into two perfectly healthy teeth that do not need crown just to make the bridge. The final clincher is that two bridge cost more than one implant. So i recommend your talking this whole thing over with your dentist and make a better decision now that you have the right information. Dr neil mcleod dds dentistry that lasts - quality that counts.

Affordable Dentistry: Implant dentistry has the best results when done properly, for a single tooth replacement. Major studiesof bridges versus implants showed that after 17 years of use 35% of bridges had failed. 3-5% of implants. You are lucky to live in hartford as there is the uconn health ctr in farmington where you can get discounted care from post-doc dental residents.

long vs short-term: You didn't say your age, or total condition of your mouth. If you are seeking replacement options and concerned about cost: $0 = do nothing, but many non-$ costs long term. $$ =partial denture, will last roughly 10 years. $$$ short term/ $$$$ long term = bridge because it will fail with decay average 12-15 years. $$$$ short term/$ long term, implant crown--will not decay. Must consider total needs.