born without an adult tooth on my lower 2nd premolar. Have some bone loss and tooth may need to be pulled. Bridge or implant?

Question

I was born without an adult tooth on my lower 2nd premolar that has had a crown on it for many years. I have some bone loss now and the tooth may need to be pulled. Is an implant my only option or would a bridge be able to take care of this? I know an implant is the best option but it’s very expensive

David Redford, DMD · Answer

An implant is typically the best option, but it's hard to say without seeing you in-person. An implant is a titanium piece that goes down into the bone, which should last you for the rest of your life! You're also only dealing with one tooth. With an implant, we typically suggest bone graft and membrane, which helps to build up that bone loss, so the implant holds steady and secure in place.
With a bridge, you're tampering with multiple teeth, some of which are most likely healthy teeth. 
It really depends from person to person, but an implant is typically the best option.

born without an adult tooth on my lower 2nd premolar. Have some bone loss and tooth may need to be pulled. Bridge or implant?

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born without an adult tooth on my lower 2nd premolar. Have some bone loss and tooth may need to be pulled. Bridge or implant?

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