Why Would Dentists Recommend a Partial Denture When I Want Implants?

After years of neglect, my front teeth are stained and chipped. Two left teeth – incisor and canine are missing. I found a new dentist two months ago who would not listen to me and was disrespectful about the condition of my mouth. I asked about cosmetic treatment, and she recommended a partial denture. I do not want a partial denture, and I asked her to explain my options. The dentist said that a partial denture is the least expensive way to fix my teeth.

Neglecting my oral health over the years had nothing to do with money. I decided to switch dentists. My appointment was two weeks ago, and again, this dentist recommended a partial denture and told me that an implant is another option, but it is out of the ballpark for me. I am insulted. Although I am not wealthy, I work and can budget to pay for dental care. How can I find a dentist willing to save my teeth and respect me and my preferences? – Thank you. Toya from Dallas

Toya,

Many dentists do not want to try to save teeth. It is easier to extract them and offer a partial denture. An implant is a better option than a partial denture. If you want dental implants, find a dentist with advanced implant training or who partners with an oral surgeon for implant surgery.

If you have a mixture of chipped and discolored teeth, a dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training can use a combination of treatments to restore them. But a dentist who is not comfortable with cosmetic dentistry might direct you to a quick solution—a partial denture.

Finding a Dentist to Restore Your Teeth

You can find a dentist to save and restore your teeth by researching two or three dentists and scheduling consultations with them. Look for these factors:

  • Advanced cosmetic dentistry training
  • Post-graduate dental implant training or partnership with an oral surgeon or periodontist for implant surgery
  • A website smile gallery or before-and-after photos to show you
Diagram of dental imlant components, including the root form, connector, and crown
Dental implants are much more effective than partial dentures

A skilled cosmetic dentist who regularly restores implants and provides other aesthetic treatments will readily recommend saving your teeth. After two or three consultations, you can choose a dentist that you think you can trust. And if you need extensive dental work and want to pay for your dental care over time, ask the dentist about financing or payment plans.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX, female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Oral Surgeon Refuses to Remove Both My Wisdom Teeth

Last May, I got two root canals, one repeat root canal, and three crowns. I am trying to catch up on dental work for my neglected teeth. I have two wisdom teeth left – both lower – one hurts and is impacted. The oral surgeon says the impacted wisdom tooth is causing neck and ear pain. She says that after she removed it, I will feel relief. For some reason, she does not want to remove both wisdom teeth while I am sedated. I told her that I do not want either of them removed if she does not take both teeth out. Neither of us is budging. Why wouldn’t she remove both teeth? Thank you. Jonah from TN

Jonah,

Dr. Lacy would need to examine your teeth or refer you to an oral surgeon for a second opinion. Without an exam, we cannot give you an accurate diagnosis. If your oral surgeon does not want to remove both wisdom teeth while you are sedated, she must have a good reason for it. Maybe there are no issues with the tooth.

But if you do not understand why the oral surgeon will not remove the tooth, it is best to speak with her. Ask for an explanation.

What Happens If You Do Not Remove and Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Woman's face with her eyes closed while she receives dental work
Get a second opinion on wisdom teeth removal

If you do not remove an impacted wisdom tooth, a tooth infection can spread. If you already have an earache and neck pain, they are symptoms that your body is trying to fight the infection. Lingering tooth infections can flare-up. In rare cases, they can even be life-threatening.

You and your oral surgeon disagree. So, you can schedule a second opinion with another oral surgeon. Have copies of your x-ray sent before your second-opinion appointment.

Miranda Lacy, DDS of Plano, Texas, sponsors this post.