Should Lower Second Molars Routinely Be Replaced with Implants?

Do you miss the tooth?  Do you have a tooth opposing it?  In general it is a good idea to replace missing teeth with implants.

I do not routinely replace second molars with implants.  Most patients will do fine with first molar occlusion.  This being said, it's really up to your individual situation and your preference.  Your dentist can assess your situation and provide you with the risks and benefits unique to your mouth.

No. There is no reason to routinely replace a second lower molar. First molar bite/occlusion is perfectly acceptable especially If there is no UPPER second molar to bite against. However, having said that, your dentist or specialist will assess your bite to customize a treatment plan to suit your personal needs. 

There are several factors that need to be considered when answering this question.The first question, and possibly the most important one is, is there a tooth opposing the site where the second molar was extracted? In other words, there is no need to replace this tooth with an implant if there is no tooth that it will be chewing against. Another question to answer is, is the missing tooth space already a good site for an implant or will it require treatment before an implant can be placed? In some cases, it may not make sense to consider an implant because the amount of treatment that will be needed to create an ideal implant site is just so extensive. 

Unless you are elderly, you should consider replacing your lost second molar with an implant.  It will help to have it there when you lose your first molar, which will happen more quicly if your second is missing and not replaced.