The tooth decay I had on on back molars was so bad that I had to get dental implants done last year. When I was in for a normal check-up, he said that there are some spacing issues and that likely was part of the problem. Then, he continued to tell me that it should have been treated with orthodontics, before my dental implants.
You have got to be kidding me! He was the dentist that did the dental implants. Now, he’s telling me that I should have had my teeth straightened first. The gaps in front are pressing on the back teeth and my front teeth extend over the bottom ones. So, now I’m supposed to go back and get my dental implants removed and then redone? What?!
Does this sound correct? I refuse to move forward with this plan unless I get some reassurance. I can’t believe it.
– Paul in Minnesota
Paul,
Unfortunately, the dental implants would need to be removed to have orthodontics placed now. But, it’s not that simple. If you have had them for a year or more, the bone is likely integrated with the implant post. So, you would require bone grafting to rebuild the area before you would be able to have new dental implants done again.
Basically, you would be starting over. And I’m assuming you don’t want to do that. It would be ideal to leave them be, especially if they are doing well.
But, is sounds like straightening your teeth is important to you. It may be possible to have some form of orthodontics done and leave the dental implants untouched. But, it all depends on which teeth require re-positioning, which is hard to gauge without having seen you in person.
Don’t go back to your general dentist. Although, it sounds like the dental implants were successful, he should have recommended your teeth be straightened first. Since he hasn’t succeeded in his communication and planning, it’s time to find another dentist in your area. Keep your eye out for a cosmetic dentist that also does dental implants. Also, it would be wise to have a consultation with an orthodontist. Then, you can gather some opinions and go from there.
Hopefully this will give you some clear next steps and the reassurance you need. Best of luck!
This post is sponsored by Barrington cosmetic dentist James T. Gavrilos, DDS