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Expert: - 8/10/2006


Question
Hi Dr. Zelig, here is my question:

I lost need an implant in an empty space at the second-to-last bottom molar (#19) location.  Since the space has been there for a number of years, the last molar next to it has tilted over into the space somewhat (in the x-ray it looks pretty far inclined).  

My question is whether this tooth could be or would need to be righted through orthodontics before an implant was put in to the adjacent space.  I am having trouble imagining how this would be accomplished, and I'm wondering if insurance would cover it as a non-cosmetic procedure.  (I know you are neither an orthodontist nor an insurance person, but if you have heard anything about another case like this maybe you have some idea.)   Thank you very much for answering my question.  

Answer
Hi,
The tooth can be uprighted with orthodontics using a special orthodontic appliance. An orthodontist can do this for you. However, it is not alwaya necessary. It depends on how much room is left for an implant. even if the back tooth has tipped a little bit, you still might have enough room for a smaller implant. If that is the case, you can save yourself some money and time. Once you get the implant and crown, the back tooth should not tip any further. I don't know if insurance would cover the procedures. My advice to you would be to go see an implant specialist, such as a periodontist or an oral surgeon and determine if an implant can be done at this point of if a referral to an orthodontist is in order.

Best of Luck,
Joseph Zelig, DDS
www.smileinthecity.com

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Joseph Zelig, DDS, D.ABP www.smileinthecity.com

Expertise

Dr. Zelig is a board-certified Periodontist and an expert on dental implants. Dr. Zelig can answer any and all questions you have about complex dental problems, dental implants, gum disease, treatment of gum recession, and treatment of a "gummy smile".

Experience

Dr. Zelig has personally placed over a thousand implants with excellent success and has worked with many dental specialists and educated them on full mouth reconstruction, esthetic dentistry, and dental implantology.

Organizations
American Dental Associateion, American Academy of Periodontology, American Board of Periodontology, North-Eastern Society of Periodontitis, New York State Dental Association, New York County Dental Society

Education/Credentials
I received both my dental degree (DDS) and my certificate in the specialty of Periodontics from New York University College of Dentistry. Dr. Zelig graduated among the top 10% of the graduating class. As a result of outstanding academic achievements, Dr. Z was elected into the membership of Omicron Kappa Upsilon- the national dental honor society. In addition, Dr. Zelig has lectured to general dentists and specialists on periodontal treatment and dental implants. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology which recognizes periodontists who have made significant achievements beyond the educational requirements of the specialty. Board-certified periodontists have been examined by a panel of internationally respected peers and has been awarded Diplomate status. By successfully completing this challenge, Dr. Zelig has demonstrated a robust knowledge of periodontics, Continued professional development, Critical review of results of therapy, and interest in providing the best, most up-to-date care.

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