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Message: [QUOTE="honestdoc, post: 120729, member: 7943"] When teeth are extracted, the jaw bone flattens continuously. It becomes more and more difficult to restore function due to decreased retention for dentures, available bone for implants and bone strength for bridge abutments. This is more pronounced in the lower jaw where dentures and partials become so ill-fitting that people refuse to wear them after it is fabricated. When I hear people say they want all there teeth pulled just to be done with it, I see red flags with unrealistic expectations. Like Dr. MattKW mentioned, implants require more care and maintenance than natural teeth. People do not consider costs, trauma, lack of function (dentures & partial dentures), and high need for maintenance until after the fact. Just like cars, people's mouths will never be maintenance free. I would suggest finding a dentist you trust and have a thorough session to discuss health history (heart conditions, diabetes, and any medications that causes dry mouth, excess bleeding, and/or bisphosphonates which will cause bone damage), parafunctions such as grinding/clenching, diet and full treatment plan. If saving teeth is realistic, then there should be full expectations on maintenance not just "I brush and sometimes floss." Many factors contribute to bad teeth and those need to be identified. [/QUOTE]