Implant to reshape maxillary tuberosity area after 3rd molar extraction?

Question

Had 16 extracted 4 months ago (I'm 29) with small bone fragment. Partial bony impaction, crown tilted forward and out to cheek such that bucc. and mass. had to work around it to chew/talk (but function was fine - removal was for minor gum infection). After, face showed unilateral thinning (dntist thinks bone loss and muscle atrophy to be the cause). Platysma and pterygoids are constantly tight, cheek sagging forward.Are there implants that can mimic the bulge of a tooth and reshape the jaw?

Christian Yaste, DDS · Answer

Stephanie,
The short answer to your question, will having one dental implant in the 16 area make a difference in your outer appearance, is no.  If you are noticing changes in the appearance of your face after an extraction of a wisdom tooth, it is most likely weight loss, not bone loss or muscle atrophy.  There may be some nerve damage that occured during the extraction  that could cause your cheek to sag, but damage to the facial nerve would generally cause sagging of the whole side of your face and even under your eye.  
Getting the tooth out was  a good idea, based on your description.  It is incredibly rare to replace a wisdom tooth with a dental implant.  There are easier and less invasive ways to change your outer appearance. You may want to consider fillers (see plastic surgeon).  The easiest way would be to gain some weight, but that might not be the path you want to follow.
The bigger problem here is the tightness in your muscles.  My suggestion would be to see another oral surgeon, ENT, or dentist that has experience in treating TMD and other facial issues.  You certainly should have therapy to relax and possibly deprogram the muscles.  
Warm Regards,

Implant to reshape maxillary tuberosity area after 3rd molar extraction?

Answers (1)