Alpaca, we've had a few discussions on the forum on dental issues. My radiation was focused on my lower jaw, right side. My 4 lower front became loose, were removed, and I had a 10-tooth bridge made to replace my missing lower teeth. I wasn't very happy with the bridge as it was causing bite issues, and because of this an upper left molar cracked and had to be extracted. This tooth was not in the radiation field and from what my doctors have indicated my jaw bone is healthy in this area.

The oral surgeon at my consult before extraction indicated an implant was possible (would do some tests to make sure the jawbone was healthy). Just a few weeks later at a follow-up visit, he said he wouldn't recommend it. He was in a hurry so I didn't get a chance to question him further.

I see two different ENTs - one locally and another at Johns Hopkins. Both ENTs said it is possible, but recommend caution before proceeding.

I see a prosthodontist as my general dentist, and recently switched to a new one. He is in the "no implant" camp.

In the mean time, I decided to get braces on my upper teeth to improve my bite and hopefully prevent any additional cracked teeth and enable me to use my front teeth to chew. The braces will be on until sometime next year, so the decision on implant vs bridge (3-tooth) to replace my missing molar is on hold. Right now I'm leaning on going the "safe" route with the bridge, but I just don't like the idea of destroying two more healthy teeth to create the bridge. I plan on consulting with a few more dental professionals about getting an implant, but that won't be until next year. I'm sure they will recommend more HBOT if I pursue the implant.

One of the reasons mentioned against an implant in my case is that it is an upper molar and the upper jaw bone is smaller than the lower jaw bone and is next to my sinus cavity. There is concern that could cause issues with my sinus cavity if the implant is too deep.

In your case I wouldn't rule implants out, just do your homework and consult with experienced doctors. I know a few OC survivors who have had implants, but don't know if they had any problems.

Please let us know what you decide. Good luck!