The lower 1st molar is the first molar tooth to erupt into the mouth, usually the first tooth to get a filling, a crown and a root canal. Consequently, it is often one of the first teeth to be extracted. Poor quality root canals are very common. Many patients are convinced to do their root canals at their general dental office instead of at an Endodontist's (root canal specialist) office. Outcomes are generally far better in specialty offices. Such was the case for this patient, a failed root canal that lead to the loss of this lower left first molar (tooth #19). Note, the excellent bone width and very healthy gum tissue. This is a perfect situation for a dental implant. The old-fashioned treatment was to restore the missing tooth with a fixed bridge which requires grinding down of the tooth in front and the one behind.
