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Question:
Molar bridge + crowns vs alternatives: I'm 63. My dentist plans to extract a broken lower left molar adjacent to the back molar, which is still good.
My four wisdom teeth are long gone. The dentist wants to crown the two anchor teeth next to the tooth to be extracted and put in a metal plus porcelain bridge with pontic. The anchor teeth are worn, possibly from night time clenching.
The dentist had little time to explain it, so I did my own research. Is this the best plan? I'm concerned about weakening the anchor teeth during file down, hygiene, decay, fit and bite, and other problems.
Would it be better to extract and then just see how I do for awhile? How about a fixed implant instead of bridge, or removable denture? ... Visitor from TX
Answer:
Determining the "best" plan can only be achieved through the use of multiple consults with essentially identical data that is assessed by different dentists or specialists.
For the record.... nothing is superior to the use of dental implants for single or multiple teeth replacements.
If possible, include a consult with a prosthodontist with 15+ years of experience. The more consults you get... the more treatment options you will learn about. Keep in mind that no two dentists are equally skilled or talented in all tooth replacement options.
Editorial Staff
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