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Question:
I am an 82 year old lady with several permanent bridges and a four tooth removable bridge. I have just moved to this area and have a new dentist who wants to redo all of my permanent bridges because he says there is decay under the bridges.
Within this past year, prior to coming here, I had a new permanent bridge inplaced and my dentist made no mention about decay under any of my other bridges. At the present time I feel that my mouth and gums are better than they have been in several years. Some of my permanent bridges have been in for a number of years. I think that except for arthritis I am in good health.
Having dental work is very hard on me and I suffer greatly. I wonder, considering the number of bridges I now have, if it would not be wiser to have full dentures than replacing those I now have. At my age it would take a lot out of me to go through extensive dental work. ... Louise in CO
Answer:
Louise, first, get a second opinion. Have a dentist take good Bitewing X-Rays. If necessary, get a third opinion. Most dentists can give you a free consultation. Pick up the X-Rays from the dentist who took the X-Rays and get your other opinions.
My concern, just like yours, is putting you through major dental work at your age. Even if you have slight decay under the bridges it may be years before they break down to the point of needing denture.
Don't even consider dentures at your age. You will not accommodate to them. You can make a better decision after you consult some more opinions from other dentists. I would recommend consulting with a prosthodontist, a dentist who specializes in bridges. Be careful about going to large offices that are very busy and cannot take their time evaluating you.
Editorial Staff
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