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Crown and Bridgework - Getting it Right the First Time
Advancements in Cantilever Bridges
Cemented vs Screw Mount Implant Bridges
Pictures: Bad Bridgework
Dental Bridges - Pros and Cons
Super Glue Bridge Fix?
Question:
Bridge or Implant? I'm having an abscessed tooth extracted in a couple weeks and I'm having a hard time making a decision about how to replace the tooth.
I believe the dentist said the bridge would consist of teeth 13,14 and 15. One of teeth next to the abscessed one needs a crown, but the one on the other side is totally healthy.
I have been considering an implant, but worry about this option due to the price and the fact that I would need a sinus lift. I have suffered with nonstop sinusitis for years due to the abscess and worry about more pain and complications.
Are implants really that much better?? I really don't want it to be obvious that I have "fake teeth". Is it a good idea to get a second opinion? ...Visitor from NH
Answer:
I can understand your concern about losing this tooth and wanted to do the right thing.
If you have had sinusitis for "years" due to this failing tooth, why not get this abscessed tooth out and let the jawbone and sinus heal and get back to normal. Once a tooth is extracted you do not have to rush to get a tooth in the space or "bridge" the gap by cutting down a good tooth.
In the long run, even though it is more of an investment to receive a sinus lift (if the sinus is normal) and implant, it is a much better choice over the long run.
Once the sinus lift is done and the implant is fully osseointegrated (fused to the bone) it can support a single crown and last a lifetime if everything stays healthy.
If you have a bridge done it involves crowning a tooth that truly needs a crown, but also cutting down a healthy tooth to anchor the back side of the three unit bridge. Once this is done you will need to use a floss threader under this bridge for the rest of your life to keep it free from gum disease and decay.
Most people do not take the time or effort to floss between or underneath their fixed bridges and end up getting decay and gum disease around their bridge units. Once this happens the bridge and possibly the teeth need to come out and other treatment options need to be looked into.
I strongly urge you to talk to your dentist again or seek a second opinion regaurding your options.
ComfortableDental.com
Ron Briglia, DMD
Chester County Medical Building
600 East Marshall Street, Suite 201
West Chester PA 19380
(610) 692-4440
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