I totally get where you’re coming from about the cost—those numbers are wild. But I do think it can be a bit of a gamble leaving a gap, especially with molars. I skipped replacing a molar for a couple years too, and it was fine at first... until my other teeth started shifting. Suddenly my bite felt weird, and I started getting headaches I’d never had before. My dentist explained it’s not always an immediate thing—it can take years for the issues to show up.
That said, I get not wanting to shell out thousands if you’re not seeing any problems right now. It’s just tough because sometimes the problems sneak up on you later. I wish dental stuff wasn’t so expensive—nobody should have to choose between their teeth and their rent. Just sharing my experience in case it helps someone else weigh the risks.
- Had both: wisdom teeth out in college, then lost a molar a few years later.
- Wisdom teeth removal = chipmunk face and living on applesauce for a week.
- Losing a molar didn’t hurt as much, but now my other teeth are slowly drifting like they’re on vacation.
- Dentist says, “replace it or else,” but my wallet says, “maybe next year…”
- Honestly, I’d rather do wisdom teeth again—at least you know what you’re in for and it doesn’t mess with your bite long-term (usually).
- Dental bills are wild though. Why does it cost more to fix a tooth than fix my car?
