I just had a back upper molar removed, which can only be replaced with an implant. My dentist, who’s kind of a conservative guy, thinks that the interface between the titanium post and the gum needs very careful maintenance, and is not particularly fond of them.
On the other hand, the oral surgeon who pulled the tooth didn’t think they were that big a deal, assuming you’re not in the 5% group where they just don’t take. He said you have to floss, but they’re generally problem-free. I have a friend who has several who says the same.
So, what are the experiences of dopers? Generally good, or are there horror stories?
We just had a thread by someone who has bad teeth and is looking at very expensive dental work to save them, and a lot of people were suggesting just get them pulled, because you can get away without all of your teeth. Is this molar right at the back, so maybe you don’t need it replaced, or could it be replaced with a bridge?
I didn’t know there was a 5% chance they wouldn’t work; that makes me think I’ll never get one, because I am unlucky in everything to do with teeth. I don’t like those odds for me.
I had tooth #8 (front, right of centerline) replaced with an implant just over a year ago for about $5k , less 3% for prepayment, plus $1k for the crown. Love it but am still paying off the credit union loan and was concerned about doc having no liability for those that “do not take”. I had the injected anesthetic that gives you incidental amnesia. Never any pain. My sucky dental insurance covered only about half of the crown. I’ve recently heard that implants go for less than $1,000 in the Boston area. I’d be interested in anyone else’s cost per region.