Any dentists? Question about missing molars...

[strongblackcoffee]

After another extraction this afternoon DH now has all three upper molars missing - something to do with bone decay, I'm a bit hazy about details... He's very good at cleaning his teeth, honest

Dentist said that dentures might be difficult due to the lack of healthy bone (?), suggested implants as possibility, but I have just googled these and nearly fallen off chair in horror. We absolutely cannot afford this.

So we wanted to ask whether it would cause him major problems to leave these teeth missing? Or for any advice at all really. Thanks...

[strongblackcoffee]

Sorry, to clarify, all three upper molars on one side - the other side is fine...

[nurseblade]

How old is he? Did the dentist say he has periodontal disease? Is he a smoker?

[silverfrog]

not a dentist, but have had an implant.

I have a missing molar - bottom left, extraction was years ago, and the bone does erode away with no tooth anchoring it.

I recently had ot have an incisor extraction, and had an implant. yes, bloody expensive (and bloody sore too, and long-winded, but I had to have a bone graft due to infection)

anyway, none of that much help, sorry.

but wanted ot add (with disclaimer ot say that obviously you would have to check out the dental clinc involved) - Groupon (online group voucher scheme) often have offers on for implant work - up to 60/70% off. might be worth a look?

[strongblackcoffee]

that's interesting silverfrog, I'll have a look at groupon, thanks.

He's 42, never been a smoker, think it could be periodontal, I'll check when he gets home...

[nurseblade]

Did the dentist do or suggest deep scaling/hygienist visits to get the perio under control? Otherwise he will risk losing more teeth.

[strongblackcoffee]

Hmmm, well, I have asked him. He is not sure whether it was perio - very vague 'might have been something like that' type answer. Followed by another vague 'that's what they told me last time' about the hygienist stuff. Doesn't seem overly concerned about losing more teeth (although did get some reaction when I mentioned thousands of pounds for implants).

[gritted teeth]

no pun intended...

[nurseblade]

Ok well, it sounds like periodontal disease. He has the choice of hygienist visits to get it under control or eventually losing more teeth. There are also links between perio and heart disease so if he leaves it he could also damage his heart.

[strongblackcoffee]

Thanks, that's all really helpful, I'll push him to get it sorted out. I really appreciate the advice - will also attempt to make dh appreciate it too...