Dental Advice faq from Seattle Area Dentist

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I went to the dentist today to check the tooth that partially came out last week. Bottom line is removal of tooth, (#18--last back tooth on left), or root canal, crown etc. He explained if I go with tooth removal....the tooth above it, since its not meeting any teeth down below, it'll 'grow' downwards looking for the tooth...and in essence lose that tooth also...I've never heard of this.

Certainly there are many factors for your decision, including such things as the health of your other teeth or bone, finances, and the prognosis of the tooth or teeth involved. And, yes, teeth will very often grow out and interfere with your bite if there is no tooth to bite against. In fact, 1 hour ago, I just examined a severe case of this in which my patient's upper molars have grown out so far that they are now hitting his lower gums! I hope this helps.