Do I Need Implants After Front Tooth Extraction?

Is it necessary to place a pin after tooth extraction?

A year and a half ago, I visited the dentist, and the director pointed out that one of the four front false teeth had a fitting issue, and there might be decay underneath.
At that time, I was afraid of seeing the dentist, so I endured it for over a year.
Eventually, the real tooth next to the false tooth developed decay and needed a filling.
This reminded me of the fitting issue the director mentioned over a year ago regarding the four front false teeth.
I decided to have my front teeth repaired.
When the director opened the original false teeth, he discovered that the outermost tooth among the four front teeth was already decayed and needed to be extracted.
The doctor suggested that the only option was to grind down the adjacent canine tooth to support the extracted tooth.
I would like to ask Dr.
Tseng: After the extraction, is it better to place an implant in the empty space and then create a new mold for the false tooth, or is it acceptable to directly place the false tooth without an implant? If I go without an implant, will the false tooth fit well against the gums? Currently, with the temporary tooth, I feel like I'm speaking with a lisp, which is quite frustrating.
I'm worried that similar issues might arise once the permanent false tooth is placed.
I would like to consult Dr.
Tseng about this.

Ms. Chen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/08

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If, after removing a poorly fitting denture, it is found that the adjacent tooth has decayed and needs to be extracted, it is not possible to place an implant in the empty socket immediately.
Instead, a new impression must be taken to create a new denture.
The temporary denture placed before the extraction site has fully healed is made of plastic, which does not fit as well against the gums as a permanent denture would.
Once the permanent denture is fitted, the fit should improve.

Reply Date: 2015/08/08

More Info

After the extraction of a front tooth, the decision to get an implant or not is a significant one that depends on various factors, including the condition of the surrounding teeth, the health of the gums, and your overall dental health. In your case, since you have already experienced issues with the fit of your existing dentures and have had to deal with cavities in adjacent teeth, it’s essential to consider the implications of leaving a gap versus opting for an implant.

First, let’s discuss the purpose of dental implants. Implants serve to replace missing teeth and help maintain the structure of the jawbone. When a tooth is extracted, the bone that supported the tooth can begin to resorb or shrink over time. This can lead to changes in your facial structure and can affect the alignment of your remaining teeth. Therefore, placing an implant soon after extraction can help preserve the bone and prevent these issues.

Regarding your specific situation, since your dentist has suggested that the adjacent canine tooth may need to be modified to support a new prosthetic tooth, this indicates that there is a need for a stable foundation for your new dental restoration. If the extraction site is left empty, it may lead to shifting of the adjacent teeth, which can complicate future dental work and lead to further dental issues.

Now, concerning the question of whether to place an implant or simply use a denture to fill the gap left by the extracted tooth, there are several considerations:
1. Stability and Functionality: Dental implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, providing a stable and functional replacement that mimics the natural tooth. This stability can enhance your ability to chew and speak without the fear of the prosthetic slipping, which seems to be a concern for you with your current temporary denture.

2. Aesthetic Considerations: Implants can be designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing result compared to traditional dentures, which may not fit as snugly and can lead to gaps.

3. Long-term Investment: While the initial cost of dental implants may be higher than dentures, they are often more durable and can last many years, sometimes a lifetime, with proper care. Dentures, on the other hand, may need to be replaced or adjusted over time.

4. Bone Preservation: As mentioned earlier, implants help maintain the jawbone structure. If you choose not to replace the tooth with an implant, you may experience bone loss in that area, which can lead to further complications down the line.

5. Consultation with Your Dentist: It’s crucial to have an open discussion with your dentist about your concerns regarding the fit of your current temporary denture and the potential for future issues. They can provide insights based on your specific dental health and the condition of your gums and jawbone.

In conclusion, while it may seem daunting to consider dental implants, they often provide a more stable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solution compared to traditional dentures, especially in the case of front teeth. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and discuss your options thoroughly with your dentist to make an informed decision that aligns with your dental health goals and lifestyle. If you have lingering concerns or feel uncertain, seeking a second opinion from another dental professional could also provide additional clarity and reassurance.

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