Replacing a molar is the process of removing a damaged or missing back tooth and restoring function and appearance. This guide explains what to expect when replacing a molar, including your options, the implant steps and timeline, recovery tips, risks, costs, and how to choose the right provider. Read on for clear next steps so you can make an informed choice about replacing a molar.
Why You Might Need Replacing A Molar
- Pain or persistent infection that doesn't respond to treatment.
- Difficulty chewing or avoiding foods because of a broken tooth.
- Neighboring teeth drifting or shifting into the empty space.
- Bone loss in the jaw where a tooth is missing, which can change your bite and facial support.
- Risk of further decay or gum disease if a damaged molar is left untreated.
Common Options For Replacing A Molar
Dental implant
A dental implant replaces both the root and the crown. An implant gives the best chewing power, helps preserve jawbone, and feels most like a natural tooth. For many people, replacing a molar with an implant is the most durable long-term choice.
Fixed bridge
A fixed bridge uses the teeth on either side of the gap as supports for a false tooth. Bridges are faster to finish than implants but require altering healthy neighboring teeth and don't stop bone loss under the missing root.
Removable partial denture
Partial dentures are the least expensive option and are reversible. They can restore appearance and basic function, but they are less stable and can be less comfortable than implants or bridges.
The Implant Process When Replacing A Molar
Initial consult and imaging
Your dentist or specialist will review your health history, examine the mouth, and take X-rays or a CBCT scan. This helps plan exact implant size and position. Ask about how the plan reduces risks for replacing a molar in your jaw.
Tooth extraction and bone grafting (if needed)
If the molar is still present and diseased, it will be extracted. If the socket or jaw lacks bone, a bone graft may be placed to rebuild the area. Grafting adds time — often a few months — before implant placement because the graft must heal.
Implant placement
The implant is surgically placed into the jaw under local anesthesia. You may feel pressure but not sharp pain during the procedure. After surgery, expect mild soreness and instructions for short-term care.
Healing and osseointegration
Osseointegration is when the bone grows around the implant. This typically takes several weeks to a few months. Normal signs of healing include reduced swelling and easing of discomfort. If you are replacing a molar in Oakbrook Terrace or Glenview, IL, your provider will monitor healing with follow-up visits and images.
Abutment and crown
Once the implant is stable, an abutment is attached and a crown is made to match your bite and color. The final crown restores chewing and looks like a natural molar. The whole process can span a few months, depending on extractions and grafting needs.
What To Expect During Recovery
Pain is usually managed with over-the-counter or prescribed medications. Stick to soft foods for a few days, avoid chewing on the implant side until cleared, and use ice to limit swelling. Keep the area clean with gentle rinses and careful brushing. Most people resume normal chewing within a few weeks to months as healing completes.
Risks, Complications, And How They’re Managed
- Infection — managed with antibiotics and cleaning; rare when follow-up care is followed.
- Implant failure — smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, and poor bone can raise risk; careful planning lowers it.
- Nerve irritation — more common with lower jaw molars; doctors use imaging to avoid it and may adjust the plan if close to nerves.
- Sinus issues — upper molar implants can affect the sinus; sinus lift procedures or different implant placement can prevent problems.
Cost And Insurance Considerations For Replacing A Molar
Costs vary by location and complexity. A single implant with crown commonly ranges from a few thousand dollars to higher depending on grafting or advanced imaging. Insurance may cover part of a bridge or denture and sometimes a portion of implant work; check your plan. Many offices offer financing or payment plans to spread costs over time.
How To Pick A Dentist For Replacing A Molar
Look for training and experience placing molar implants, use of CBCT imaging and guided implant surgery, and clear treatment plans. Check before-and-after photos and patient reviews. If you need a specialist, consider a board-certified periodontist or oral surgeon for complex cases.
Periodontal Medicine & Surgical Specialists, with offices in Oakbrook Terrace and Glenview, IL, use digital planning and guided implant surgery and have AAAHC-accredited surgical facilities — factors that can improve predictability when replacing a molar in Oakbrook Terrace or replacing a molar in Glenview, IL.
Questions To Ask At Your Consultation
- How many molar implants have you placed?
- What imaging and guided tools will you use for planning?
- Will I need a bone graft or extraction first, and how will that change the timeline?
- What are the total costs and what does my insurance usually cover?
- What is the expected longevity of the implant and crown?
- What aftercare and follow-up visits are included?
Short Conclusion And Next Steps
Replacing a molar can restore chewing, prevent shifting, and protect jawbone. Implants offer the best long-term results for many patients, though bridges and partials remain valid options. Talk with a qualified specialist who uses modern imaging and guided surgery to get a clear plan and timeline. To learn more or schedule an evaluation for replacing a molar in Oakbrook Terrace or replacing a molar in Glenview, IL, request a consultation with a trained implant team.