6 unit bridge 6-11, split between 8 & 9, bridge made in 2021 - dentist said it cannot be fixed in mouth, advice?

Question

Female age 71 white. Work in dentistry at a state facility

Miller Vieira Paula, DDS · Answer

Given your situation with a 6-unit bridge (6-11) split at 8 and 9, and the dentist stating it cannot be fixed in the mouth, there are still options to address this issue. Here's an explanation and possible solutions:
Why It Can't Be Fixed in the Mouth:
Structural Failure:If the bridge has fractured, the structural integrity may be compromised, and repairs inside the mouth may not be feasible.
Material:Bridges are often made of porcelain, zirconia, or metal. If the porcelain or zirconia has broken, it typically requires laboratory repair or full replacement.
Fit Issues:If the split affects the way the bridge fits or seats on the teeth, the bridge must be removed, repaired, or remade in a dental lab to ensure proper function.
Splitting Between 8 & 9:The split may indicate a failure in the connection or design, requiring a more robust solution.
Options for Moving Forward:1. Evaluate the Abutment Teeth (6, 7, 10, 11):The longevity of a bridge depends on the health of the supporting (abutment) teeth. Your dentist should assess:Tooth stability: Are the supporting teeth healthy and free of decay or infection?Bone support: Do the abutments have adequate bone structure for another bridge or alternative solutions?2. Bridge Removal and Rebuilding:If the abutment teeth are healthy:The dentist may take impressions to create a new bridge.This ensures the new bridge fits correctly and resolves the issue with the split.3. Implant-Supported Bridge:If the abutment teeth are compromised or cannot support another bridge, consider replacing the bridge with dental implants to support individual crowns or a smaller bridge.4. Removable Partial Denture:If implants aren’t an option due to bone loss, medical concerns, or cost, a removable partial denture could replace the missing teeth. Modern partials are more comfortable and aesthetic than older versions.5. Temporary Repair:While permanent repair may not be feasible in the mouth, a temporary bridge or splint could be fabricated to maintain aesthetics and function while you decide on a long-term solution.Things to Discuss with Your Dentist:
X-Rays and Examination:Ensure the dentist evaluates your teeth, roots, and bone with X-rays to determine the best approach.
Material Choice:For durability, consider a zirconia or porcelain-fused-to-metal bridge if opting for a replacement.
Financial Options:If cost is a concern, ask about staged treatments (e.g., starting with temporary solutions while planning for implants or a new bridge).
Second Opinion:If you feel unsure about the advice provided, seek a second opinion from a prosthodontist (a specialist in complex restorations).
Recommendation:At your age, ensuring both function and aesthetics is important for quality of life. If your abutment teeth are healthy, replacing the bridge may be the simplest option. However, if there are complications with the teeth or surrounding bone, implant-supported solutions might offer a longer-lasting and more stable result. A thorough evaluation by a prosthodontist or experienced restorative dentist will help guide you to the best decision.
Dr. Miller Vieira Paula

Ivan A. Valcarenghi, DDS · Answer

Wow, that's a bummer! Some of what i would wonder about this case is what material the bridge was made of and how many abutments and pontics? Generally a 6 unit bridge is similar to a 6 anterior veneers...overall not the best cosmetic plan, but I understand sometimes this is unavoidable. Many dentists are using Zirconia bridges for cosmetic purposes, but I have discovered that Zirconia recipe's and the composition can vary. Some are not as strong as others even though technically, these consist of "metal" and should be strong. Nevertheless, fractures are actually common on Zirconia crowns and bridges. For a long span bridge of 3 pontics or more, this is the only case where I deviate from APC (all porcelain-type) materials and will go to the traditional POM or PFM (porcelain fused to metal) materials which are tried and true strong, long lasting. Cosmetically not as good generally, but in the right hands, can be a strong and attractive result. wish you luck on this. Best, Dr. Ivan

6 unit bridge 6-11, split between 8 & 9, bridge made in 2021 - dentist said it cannot be fixed in mouth, advice?

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6 unit bridge 6-11, split between 8 & 9, bridge made in 2021 - dentist said it cannot be fixed in mouth, advice?

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