54 years of blissful dental ignorance has come to an end. Teeth have always been bulletproof. One filling from 40 years ago (that I probably didn't actually need) and 4 wisdom teeth removed about 30 years ago. Brush twice, floss once every day of my life.
Gradual mild pain in lower left jaw. Last week it got bad enough to actually go to the dentist. X-ray revealed "internal resorption" in molar (#19)...second from back on lower left side. Dentist sent me to periodontist/implant guy. Said root-canal won't help, tooth must go. Proceeded to get 30 minute pitch about removal, graft substrate, implant and crown process to the tune of almost $5k.
On antibiotic now which has resolved the pain (infection due to space between damaged tooth and gum/bone). Here are my questions (any dentists in the room?):
- Is extraction the only option?
- Must it come out asap, or is there a way to buy time (it's not painful)
- Tooth is not visible when smiling, etc., so more a question of eating and comfort.
- Is graft substrate really necessary for a future implant ($1000)? Seems the bone would fill in on it's own given time. Have read blogs indicating such.
- Can life go on happily without that tooth and no replacement?
- If not, what about a removable denture, or bridge (not thrilled about the bridge idea).
- Any other ideas?
Have a consultation scheduled with family dentist later today to brainstorm with him. He's a good guy and a trusted dentist, but felt the Periodontist was giving me the "Timeshare" pitch.
Anyone had such a tooth removed and not replaced? Open to suggestions. Appreciate thoughts or advice from the Pelican braintrust!