Can I have a fixed bridge...?

[bexr]

My history : Lower right... wisdom tooth extracted 10+ yrs ago ... 2nd molar extracted 18 Dec 2009 ... 2nd premolar - 1st root canal failed, 2nd attempt 14 Jan 2010, now failing!

The RC retreatment was done 3 weeks ago, and for the past 2 days I've been in agony. I've been given some antibiotics, but it is clear that it's failed a 2nd time! I don't have the money to spend getting my tooth root canalled for the 3rd time (already spent £450+ on this tooth - 1st RC on NHS, then 2nd 're-treatment' was done privately). I've been told that I will need an apicectomy which will cost a further £624.

Therefore, I think my only option is to have this tooth extracted. If I have it extracted, I will be left with only my 1st premolar and 1st molar on my lower right, so I will have to have a bridge/denture. I am 35 years old and I DO NOT want a denture. I've read about having a fixed bridge, however my dentist has told me that the 2 neighbouring teeth (1st premolar and 1st molar) both have cracks in them. My question is ... will I still be able to have a fixed bridge between 'cracked' teeth?

I am at my wit's end. This has been going on since October, and I am so depressed about it all. I haven't been able to work and as I am self-employed I have had no income for months.

 

[Gordon]

The other option would be to go for a single tooth implant. May be more expensive than a bridge to begin with but would have a better chance of success in the longer term.
Or else don't fill the gap at all...

 

[bexr]

Thanks for your reply Gordon. Unfortunately my new dental surgery charges from £1950 for a single tooth implant, so this is something that I certainly can't afford! I know the NHS will provide bridge/denture for a little under £200, and my dental practice charges from £325 for a 'private' single acrylic denture. So a bridge or a denture will be my only option if it is extracted.

So, can I have a fixed bridge when the 2 adjacent teeth are cracked?

 

[drhirst]

Hi Bexr,

Sorry to hear about your unsuccessful dental treatment.
As Gordon says, you could just leave the gap - once the tooth is extracted you may find you just don't miss it.
As regards using teeth with cracks in them to hold a bridge, it may well not be a problem. If the cracks are superficial the bridge covering them may prevent the cracks getting any worse. Obviously, it difficult to be sure without having seen them myself.

Hope this helps a little.

Lincoln