Baton Rouge Dentist

Do I Need to Replace My Dental Bridge If I Don’t Have Symptoms?

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Do I need a new dental bridge if I don’t have symptoms? I had my 6-month dental exam and cleaning last month, and it was time for x-rays. My dentist said an anchor tooth in my bridge was cracked. The bridge replaces a top right incisor. I don’t have any symptoms in my cracked tooth. Do I need a new bridge now? Yesterday, I canceled my follow-up appointment with my dentist. I need more time to determine whether I need treatment. Thank you. Tahlia from IL

Tahlia,

A digital image of a dental bridge for a lower left molar tooth
Lower dental bridge

Your situation shows the superior stability and longevity of dental implants compared to bridges. Although a bridge may initially cost less, it depends on the health of the surrounding teeth. If one supporting tooth fails, you usually need to replace the entire bridge. An implant works independently. If a nearby tooth fails, the implant still functions as intended.

If one abutment tooth in your bridge cracks, a dentist would need to extract it. At that point, you would need a replacement bridge that covers two teeth instead of one, making treatment more complex.
Dental implant parts, including the screw, connector, and crown, and one complete implant
Two factors raise concern about the idea of a cracked tooth:

  • No pain with biting: Cracks in a tooth’s root typically trigger sharp pain when chewing on something hard. The absence of symptoms suggests another explanation.
  • Crowned teeth resist cracks: Dentists use crowns to stabilize weakened teeth. Once covered, the crown prevents further cracking. Even in patients with powerful bites, root fractures in crowned teeth are highly unusual.

How to Get a Reliable Second Opinion for a Dental Bridge

Before agreeing to dental bridge replacement, consider getting a second opinion. Take these steps to ensure that the dentist’s assessment is independent:

  • Do not mention your current dentist, as dentists in the same community often know one another.
  • Keep details about the first diagnosis to a minimum.
  • If asked directly, say you would like their honest opinion before sharing what your dentist recommended.

Baton Rouge family dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post. Please read about how he strives to provide his patients with the best care possible.

I Have Two Missing Teeth and Can’t Afford Dental Implants

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I lost my upper left canine and premolar teeth five years ago and have been wearing a partial denture since then. Two weeks ago, I talked to my dentist about how uncomfortable the partial denture feels. She explained that I could get a dental bridge or implants, and she really pushed for implants. I cringe at the thought of being $6,000+ in debt for dental implants, so I need another perspective on my alternatives. Please assist. Thank you. Kaye

Kaye,

Thank you for contacting our office. Dr. Perry would need to perform an oral exam and take x-rays to determine your treatment options. Still, we understand your concerns. A smile is part of our facial expressions and personality, so we must weigh our options carefully when teeth are missing. Even if you cannot afford dental implants, getting natural-looking results is essential for your self-esteem and confidence.

What Are the Options If You Can’t Afford Dental Implants?

If you cannot afford dental implants, the options include a fixed or a removable prosthesis (artificial teeth).

Removable Replacement Teeth

Whether you are missing one or multiple missing teeth, a partial denture can replace them. If you already wear an uncomfortable partial denture, you can get a more comfortable new one from a skilled dentist. You can consult with a cosmetic dentist for a partial denture with these improvements:

  • Better quality
  • Sturdy, comfortable framework
  • Natural-looking replacement teeth

Fixed Replacement Teeth

Fixed replacement teeth include a dental bridge and dental implants.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a series of dental crowns connected at their sides. The end crowns fit over your natural teeth, and the crown(s) in the middle replaces the missing tooth or teeth.

  • A dentist must shave down two natural teeth for the ends of the bridge to fit over them.
  • Your jawbone will shrink wherever your teeth are missing.
  • A well-made dental bridge can last five to ten years.

Dental Implants

Dental implant parts, including the screw, connector, and crown, and one complete implantDental implants are artificial tooth roots with a crown attached to the top. You can get a dental implant for each missing tooth. A dental implant is the most expensive form of tooth replacement. Consider three features of dental implants:

  • Your jawbone anchors your implants, not adjacent teeth.
  • Dental implants stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone shrinkage.
  • An implant screw can last 20 years or longer. You will only need to replace the dental crowns.

Your oral health and your budget influence the tooth replacement option you choose. We recommend scheduling at least two second-opinion appointments to discuss your options and how each dentist can make treatment affordable. If you cannot afford dental implants, speak with a cosmetic dentist about achieving the most natural-looking results possible with a partial denture or a dental bridge.

 

Dr. Ryan Perry, a Baton Rouge family dentist, sponsors this post.