Q. I currently have a bridge on my front teeth this was fitted 15 years ago when i had the two front teeth removed. I have decided to have implants as the bridge has failed and the supporting teeth are infected. I have had two consultations, the first dentist said that the teeth would be removed and due to the fact that i have a high smile line i would wait 3-6 months for the site to heal. Then the implants would be placed and then there would be another 3-6month wait before the permanant bridge could be fitted to the implants. During this time i would wear an adhesive bridge. This seemed like a long time so i had a second consultation with another dentist, this time i was told that the teeth could be removed and the implants placed with immediate loading of temp teeth for 3-6 months before permanant bridge fitted, despite telling the dentist that i do tend to grind and clench my teeth when sleeping. I am now very confused as to which is the best option as both dentists have advised such different methods. I have read that immediate loading can be quite high risk of failure because there should be no movement as the area is healing. I just assumed that i would have implants placed straight away then wear a temporary bridge that does not put pressure on the area that is healing. Any advice, i don’t want to end up paying for another consultation.,
A. It’s impossible to tell you which is best without seeing you, immediate loading carries a slightly higher risk of failure butin the right hands can be a very successful treatment. If you’re worried go down the route of a slower treatment. This maybe more predictable.
Dr Andrew Moore
Advance Dental Clinic
104 Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 0JG
Web: www.advancedentalclinic.com Tel: 01245 268 494
