adapting to missing tooth

[Birch5]

I have just had #3 molar, upper right extracted. Plan was an implant, but cannot afford that or bridge at $4K. Want to hear about chances to adapt to the missing tooth. No nonsense opinions on risks and (financial rewards) of avoiding implant or bridge....just get by (age 64) with gap in back upper teeth. Need cheerleaders or bottom line risks asociated with "gumming it'!! Thanks

[Sam Delfino]

I agree 1000% with Lynn. She is dead on. No one is going to die from missing a tooth and we can adapt to anything. The question is what other type of damage are we going to go through. You are 64 years young, that means you have still a long way to go. The teeth will shift, this is a first molar, and you do 70-80% of your chewing on these teeth. This means the chewing load will fall on teeth that are not designed to take this load. The bone will continue to resorb in that area, the lower teeth will shift up and move into that position. These are realities and it could lead of loss of the tooth behind it or in front of it. But are you going to die from this? No! Do you want to lose the shirt off your back to have an implant done? no! Most people, if their TV breaks down, they can find a way to buy a new TV, even if it is a big screen, etc (I am not techy) but when it comes to teeth, it is not as important. You have the answer really, your values for your teeth.  

[lynn117]

the other teeth will shift. no one can predict how much. i know some people with several missing teeth that have almost no problems and others that loose just one and the teeth shift so eating is almost impossible. if you cant afford to get the work done maybe a payment plan would help. its a difficult decision but if it means you cannot pay for basic necessities dont do it. if its a matter of eliminating cable tv or a cell phone for a year do it. good luck!