I Recently Lost A Tooth To An Accident, But Now I Have Two Different Consultations On What To Do Next?

Q.
Dr. Fahey, I recently lost a tooth due to an accident. I’m 36 years old. I saw two dentists, both recommended implants. One said I need a Bio-Col ridge preservation technique done at the same time as tooth extraction, the other said a bone graft is sufficient. What is the difference? Is ridge preservation needed? The second dentist also said the bone graft should be done 3 weeks after the tooth extraction. Which treatment option is better? Thanks.
A.
You mention that you have lost a tooth and then refer to a technique that is usually done at the same time the tooth is extracted? It can also refer to a modification of the technique where the implant is placed at the same time as the tooth is removed. If the tooth has already been removed then I would usually prefer to graft the site at the same time as I place the implant. 6-12 weeks after tooth loss, time difference depending on missing tooth position. So there you have a third option. I think it is easy to get caught up in what is the best way to treat a particular situation. But the reality is that each operator will have techniques that they prefer. i.e. I almost never do ridge splitting as I have never found this to be predictable in my hands, whereas one of my colleague’s does it all the time and gets great results.
I would ask the dentist’s you have talked to about there success rates and to show you completed cases they have done. Then go with which ever one of them you feel most comfortable. Thanks.
dr nick fahey

Dr Nick Fahey
Woodborough House Dental Practice
21 Reading Road, Pangbourne, Reading RG8 7LR
Web: www.woodboroughhouse.com Tel: Tel: 0118 984 3108


Harley Street Dental Studio
42 Harley Street, London W1G 9PR
Web: www.harleystreetdentalstudio.comTel: 020 7636 5981

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