Quote:
Originally Posted by Baz
Factor in I turn 71 in June so......
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Based on this, one thing I would ask before doing an implant, and let's just assume for a second, that the lower second molar is cracked- Is how are the other lower molars doing?, and even more importantly,
how is the second lower molar on the other side of the mouth doing?- followed by- the first molar in front of the problem tooth.
If it turns out the problem tooth is cracked (again- it might be totally something else)- I would look at all the other lower molars and consider crowning them before they go down the same path (only if needed). Usually patients that crack one tooth, will crack others. Are there large fillings, craze lines, or deep plunging cusps on the upper? I'd reinforce those puppies with crowns asap (if needed) again- something you can ask your dentist. You might not need any other crowns at all. It depends.
This isn't just me saying this- I'm relaying a recent conversation from the American Association of Endodontist forums (I'm an associate member) in which they are advising their general dentist referral sources to be on the lookout for this trend and proactively treat at risk teeth before they go south. The endodontist don't make more money if the general dentist crowns the teeth, but they are seeing more and more cracked teeth (people are living longer with teeth) and dealing with the cracked teeth is a real problem and no fun for anyone.
The picture of the extruded teeth in the link is something that happened over multiple decades. Losing a second molar at 21 can be a real issue by the time you are in your 50's,60's, 70's. At 71, If it were me, I'd protect other potentially vulnerable teeth first. That upper molar is going nowhere fast.
If you have the means and bony support to place a second molar implant, go for it, but don't lose other teeth because you put all your investment in the implant basket.
This is something to discuss with your DDS pending what they find, and what they recommend in the big picture.
With all that said, I bet you go in tomorrow and it's not even cracked.
Long story short- protect the other lower molars if needed.