Is a dental implant my best option for a dead tooth?

Question

I was told by a few dentists over the last few years to get dental implant for one of my upper front teeth (x-ray shows a dead tooth) though I experience no pain, no discomfort or discoloring. The idea of removing a natural tooth troubles me. But one of the oral surgeons doesn't recommend dental implant and suggests bridges: the end result of dental implant for a front tooth is often unpredictable, and I may end up having dark gum line around the tooth. Looking for some suggestions here.

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

Since all dentists that have examined you all seem to agree that the tooth should be removed, it is more than simply a "dead tooth".  Any tooth that has had root canal therapy is a dead tooth, and many remain in people's mouths.  Since they all suggest removal, it tells me something else is wrong.Bone and gums go through many changes when a tooth is removed, and even more when implants are placed.  If aesthetics is an issue (typically on front teeth), then you should find out about all the issues and decide what is acceptable to you.

Michael Ayzin, DDS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your great question. Usually dark tooth can be fixed with a root canal therapy and a crown. It would be easier to discuss option, if I would be able to see xray of your tooth. In general, if root canal therapy is not an option, implant or a bridge are options to restore front teeth. My rule of thumb is if adjacent front teeth have cavities, are broken or have old crowns, my first recommendation would be a bridge. If adjacent front teeth are healthy and have never had any dental work, I would certainly consider implant first. 
Hope this helps. All the best to you.

Nirav Patel, MDS, PhD · Answer

its my advice to upload xray so i can guide u better. yes, in my practice also, i give implant as last choice particular wn in aesthetic zone. , but now a days no need to worry about dark line. white colour implants , abutments and crowns are available. only issue is more expensive as compare to regular ones.

Amber Garcia, DDS · Answer

Do you have any xrays you can post? Typically the treatment for a dead tooth would be a root canal and not removal of the tooth. There must be something more happening than just a dead tooth. Implants for front teeth can be done very successfully and look pretty natural. There are ceramic abutments and all ceramic crowns that will minimize or eliminate any darkness at the gum line.

Ali Abdellatif, BDS, MFDS, MSc · Answer

Like my colleague suggests a dental implant is only after all other options have been exhausted. 
A front tooth implant is definitely more challenging than back ones. The positioning of the implant and the management of the bone and soft tissue need to be good to ensure good stability and long term aesthetics. You need to find an experienced implants dentist.

Is a dental implant my best option for a dead tooth?

Answers (7)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implant

Answer: Implant

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is a dental implant my best option for a dead tooth?

Answers (7)

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implant

Answer: Implant

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.