How long can you delay an implant?

redser7

Hi - I've been having a lot of work done lately after neglecting my teeth for a few years. I had the top left 7 and 8 (wisdom) out and they've left a large enough hole. That was 3 weeks ago and the hole is healing nicely. To be honest I'm getting used to it and dont find it difficult to live with and eat.

I continue to go back to get fillings and I feel my dentist is being pushy about putting in an implant where the extractions were made. The only objection I have is the cost as he is talking 2-2,500 euro. Can anyone tell me if it is absolutely necessary to get one? He says that in 20 years the bootom teeth below the hole will have exploded up and cause problems.

Or can an implant be delayed for a year or two or more? When I suggested this he said it woud be best to get it done within 3 months. I explained that the cost is an issue and despite him saying he understands he keeps banging on about it.
The upshot is that it's left me feeling uneasy about him. I'm not qualified to judge his professionalism so that's why I've come here.

Any thought most welcome. Thanks

btkm8unsl0w5r4

Implants are expensive and not everyone can afford them. The dentist is right to suggest one as it protects the bite and prevents future problems. However you will not die without one. Tell the dentist in no uncertain terms you cannot afford one at the moment, he/she will not mind.

Re timing, yes placing the implant soon after extractions is best, you can still have one down the road but there will not be as much bone and you may need bone grafting which is not as predictable.

redser7

Thanks fitzgeme. Is it possible to predict the bone loss over time? I mean is it likely to degrade over 1 or 2 years? If I could postpone this for a year it would help. Cheers

btkm8unsl0w5r4

Bone loss happen quickly in the first 6 months and then more slowly but constantly over time. You can delay it a number of years but it it likely the implant will be more complex at that time.

redser7

Got it, thanks again!

Zardoz

Kellen Shapely Suburbanite wrote: »

Re timing, yes placing the implant soon after extractions is best, you can still have one down the road but there will not be as much bone and you may need bone grafting which is not as predictable.

Would I be correct in saying that upper back implants are more difficult to place due to less bone in that area and the close proximity to the sinus so bone grafting may be required even at this stage ?

btkm8unsl0w5r4

Zardoz wrote: »

Would I be correct in saying that upper back implants are more difficult to place due to less bone in that area and the close proximity to the sinus so bone grafting may be required even at this stage ?

Indeed, this is often the case but depends on the individuals specific anatomy. Some people have big sinus's some small ones. Again placing the implant at the time (or very shortly after) extraction, maximises the amount of real bone the surgeon has to utilise.