Huge dental problem

[rosalinda]

Hi, I'm 27 and I've got a HUGE problem with my teeth. Basically, the two big back teeth on the right side bottom of my mouth (I've never had wisdom teeth) are still my baby teeth (or so the dentist once told me) and they're horrible and broken now and need to come out. I've looked after my teeth pretty well and only have one other filling on the other side of my mouth from years ago but now I'm panicking - it's gonna be a massive gap on one side of my mouth when these teeth go: what can I do???? I've researched it a bit, I know a bridge isn't possible as there's no wisdom tooth to support it, I'd hate to wear a denture and I think implants are the only answer. Problem is, I've heard that's dangerous in the lower back jaw, I'm really scared of dental treatment (could I be brave enough to get implants - think not!!) AND on top of all that, I don't have the money.

So:
1. Is it dangerous to get implants there?
2. Why did my adult teeth never grow there (I think I've got all my others)
3. Can I get implants on the NHS since this is an emergency for me???
4. Could I get crowns on these baby teeth instead to prolong their life? (they don't hurt me, they're just nasty looking)

Thanks

 

[DrMike]

hi
welcome to dfc

1. Is it dangerous to get implants there?
There are some minor risks associated with any procedure that you have. Yes there is a nerve in that region, however a skilled implantologist would be able to reassure you once they have examined your xrays.

2. Why did my adult teeth never grow there (I think I've got all my others)
It would be a good idea to get a 2nd opinion as to whether these are in fact the deciduous teeth. Xrays will help and if they are the deciduous teeth- let them see if the adult teeth are lurking underneath (imporant to know if you are considering implants). Missing adult teeth are fairly common. The most common to be absent are the wisdom teeth, followed by premolars and lateral incisors. Something I see occassionally is malformed adult molars. This can occur if you had an illness/antibiotics when you were younger and these teeth were developing- or possibly had teeth removed from that area. So rather than them being baby teeth- there is a good chance that they are adult teeth that had a developmental issue. Just a thought.

3. Can I get implants on the NHS since this is an emergency for me???
Some dental schools will provide implants on the NHS, but the waiting lists are often extremely lengthy.

4. Could I get crowns on these baby teeth instead to prolong their life? (they don't hurt me, they're just nasty looking)
If there are no problems with the nerves and there is enough of the tooth left to crown- then yes, you possibly could have crowns.

Hope this helps
Let us know what the dentist says when you go for a check up- I'd be interested to know.

Regards

Dr Mike