I Had Tooth #18 Extracted 20-25 Yrs Ago. Can I Now Have It Replaced with an Implant or is It Too Late?

One of the reasons your dentist is telling you to hold of is because they probably want to give you at least one functional chewing side on the right, before addressing the left side.  Even though you lost your tooth a long time ago, it doesn't necessarily mean you don't have enough bone for implant placement.  This greatly varies between individuals.  In order to establish whether you have sufficient bone or not, I would recommend taking a CT Scan (3D x-ray) and have it clinically evaluated by a Board Certified Periodontist.

 

Best,

 

Dr. Krivitsky 

Implants are excellent options to replace missing teeth. Check to make sure that there is enough bone to place the implant and that there is an opposing tooth to bite against. Ask your dentist if you can start the placement of the implant in the bone as it takes a few months until you can place the crown on it.

Yes you can it is never to late but for a fixed bridge or dental implant or removable bridge you need to make sure your teeth have not drifted and the dentist has enough room to replace the missing tooth good luck

 

Kevin Coughlin DMD, MBA, MAGD      CEO Baystate Dental PC