What options are there for replacing a missing lower front tooth?

Question

A friend of mine has lost his front tooth and there is another wobbly tooth at the front. Apparently he is having a plate made up, which I don't know what that means.. Would it be better to extract the wobbly tooth which is next to the gap and look at the options then. But what are the options for lower tooth replacement?

He has also been advised that the bone can grow back by a hygienist, not the dentist who recommends both teeth should be extracted to protect the gums. Also the Hygienist states that the bone will grow back in the absence of an Xray. Is this normal?

Answer 1

Restorative options will be based on your friends overall dental health. From your brief description, "wobbly tooth", I assume there are some periodontal issues which means gum disease. These should be addressed prior to final treatment options. The ways to replace missing teeth generally fall into 2 categories: Fixed and Removable. Fixed would be the most desirable but also means the most expensive. By Fixed, I mean something that is never removed by your friend. I hope your friend addresses these issues as quickly as possible as his overall health can be affected.

Answer 2

Well, you could have a bridge done but it takes two stable teeth to anchor it to and it is quite expensive and most insurances have a waiting period of up to 2 years before it is covered at usually 50-70%. Sounds like your friend is going for the less expensive option of having a removable false tooth made. There is one more option, implants, where they insert a titanium post in the jawbone that a porcelain tooth can be screwed on to, but it is very expensve (up t $10,000 for 1 !). I am surprised the dentist hasn't noticed the loose tooth. Although it is fairly easy to add another tooth to the denture he is making now. Best bet is to keep the teeth you have by brushing and flossing twice a day if not after every meal!

Answer 3

In order of rising cost:
A denture (plate) which is removable
A bridge - false tooth attached to healthy side teeth. Not removable, except by a dentist. If you have health insurance, that will cost in the region of an extra £80 (you have to pay for the lab work). A good substitute.
An implant (big money). I'd go for that if I had the money.

Answer 4

If the basis is in good situation and broken above the bone point then we insert a submit and build the teeth (center) then do a crown in any different case extraction with a immediately implant could be the final determination.

Answer 5

A bridge or implants.