Replacing bridge with implant?

Question

will replacing a newly placed bridge with dental implant can also save the abutment teeth? I am regretting my decision of bridge and afraid that i might loose the abutment teeth, please tell me if sectioning out the pontic can save the abutment teeth from getting infected?

Michael Tam, BDS · Answer

Sectioning out your
pontic teeth and placing an implant in the area is the best way to naturally
replace the missing tooth and make it easy to care for your abutment teeth.
Abutment teeth on a bridge are usually harder to care for and more susceptible
to conditions like gingivities, cavities, and gum disease. By sectioning the
bridge, you can preserve the abutment teeth without having to remove the entire
bridge, re-prep the teeth, and place new crowns on them.

Scott Greenhalgh, DDS · Answer

The answer to how should I replace a missing tooth is different for each person. In general putting in a dental implant and not having teeth connected together is a good option. When you have a bridge made, it does connect to the tooth behind the space and then across the space to the tooth in front. There are some times when a bridge is simple more practical. A well made bridge shouldn't leave you at risk of infection of the abutment teeth.In your situation where you have a new bridge, sectioning it and taking it apart would be an option, but one of my last choices. Discuss what you are worried about with your dentist. You could have it sectioned (cut it apart), leave the abutments crowns on the actor teeth and then have an implant placed in the space.I'll warn you that while technically this CAN be done, it can be a very expensive option. Like any major dental treatment, have a good discussion with your dentist. I think if you have a good follow up conversation with your dentist, he can probably allay your fears of getting an infection on the abutment teeth.

Charles Sutera, DMD · Answer

The benefits of sectioning out the pontic of a bridge to convert the abutment teeth to crowns and placing an implant in between are 1) Better ability to floss the teeth which helps with longevity 2) An implant would help to preserve bone in the site which is now a pontic. Other than the above points, the abutment teeth should not be at any more risk by being bound in a bridge compared to being sectioned into individual crowns.

Replacing bridge with implant?

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Replacing bridge with implant?

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Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.