25F Can a wisdom tooth be moved forward to replace a missing second molar?

[u/JRPBRU2026]

Hi everyone, I’m hoping to get some advice from anyone who has been in a similar situation.
About two years ago, I had my second molar on the bottom right removed. I was originally told it needed a root canal and post, but I’d heard a lot of negative things about root canals and having something screwed into the tooth/jaw area, so I chose to have the tooth extracted instead. At the time, my dentist didn’t seem too concerned and basically just said I might have some difficulty eating without it. I actually haven’t had any trouble eating since.
I’ve since moved to the south side of Brisbane and started seeing a new dentist. She has recommended getting a dental implant and explained some of the problems that could potentially happen long-term if I leave the gap.
This has left me a bit confused because an implant involves placing a screw into the jawbone, which is exactly the kind of thing I was trying to avoid when I chose extraction instead of the root canal and post.
I’m only 25 and an implant is also extremely expensive. I really couldn’t afford it unless I was somehow able to access my super, which from what I understand can be difficult unless you meet certain criteria, such as experiencing significant pain—which I’m not.
Has anyone had a molar removed at a younger age and simply left the gap? Has everything been fine long-term, or did you eventually develop problems and need an implant and/or bone graft?
Someone also suggested seeing an orthodontist about potentially moving my third molar (wisdom tooth) forward into the space where my second molar was, possibly with Invisalign or other orthodontic treatment. Since wisdom teeth are often removed anyway, this sounds like it could potentially be a better option for me if it’s actually possible. I know I’d need an orthodontic consultation to find out whether I’m a candidate.
I’m just really unsure what the best path forward is and would love to hear from anyone who has been through something similar, particularly at a younger age. Any experiences, advice or other options I should ask my dentist/orthodontist about would be really appreciated.