Multi unit bridge or implants

[pjc524]

I’m 66 years old and have had multiple dental issues over the last few years. I conquered my fears and was able to get a lower implant replacement for a missing molar.

I’m now facing a situation and need some guidance and reassurance. My upper right first molar was extracted in March. It had been loose for years due to trauma and poor bone density. The original plan was to do a single unit bridge but the tooth adjacent to the extraction (closer to the front) is not solid either. So my dentist is recommending a multi unit bridge requiring two crowns on either side of the fake teeth (and requiring another extraction). I am not a candidate for implants on top due to poor bone density.

I’m concerned about a bridge because I rarely hear anything positive— just many failure stories. But I need to close the gap I currently have.

Professional advice would be welcomed as well as any personal experiences.

Thanks!

 

[Gordon]

Really hard to say without at least seeing some x-rays. Sorry.

In general longer span bridges like the one proposed have a worse prognosis than shorter span ones, but you can't apply a population wide statistic to an individual

 

[pjc524]

Thanks. I don’t have an X-ray to share unfortunately. Wondering …Is it possible to create two shorter span (vs one) for a better outcome?

 

[Gordon]

It's possible. Not great to have them both cantilevered off the supporting teeth though, the torque on the roots can be a problem.
An adhesive bridge might be an option? Depending on the second molar condition.

 

[pjc524]

Thank you. I’m seeking a second opinion from an oral surgeon with my dentist’s blessing. I believe he is wanting to be sure that all bases are covered. My appointment is next week. Will report back.

 

[pjc524]

So I went for my second opinion and not surprisingly the recco is for a sinus augmentation and bone graft, followed by three implants in 7-8 months. One (unhappy) surprise is that they check your progress in 3 months to see if a second graft is required.

This has overwhelmed me for multiple reasons.
1. The procedure seems darn scary with risks (ie perforation).
2. The thought of doing it twice is hard to manage.
3. The recovery sounds awful, particularly the idea of expecting ‘significant’ swelling, bleeding and bruising. Read: out of commission for 1-2 weeks.
4. Not to mention the $20,000 price tag.

I feel so lost because I don’t want to lose my teeth but this is all too much. Would love to hear any experiences or recommendations from this group or any dentists.

Thanks in advance.

 

[rholzhauer]

Sadly I'm no help here, but in the same boat, and $25-$30.000 dollars I don't have, right now I have a top and bottom partial I hate them can't eat, talk to the patients, sure they can put you on a payment plan but then I can't pay my rent, just don't know what to do
Solidarity sister,