I’m trying to make some big decisions about a tooth. I had a dental crown done months ago which my dentist now thinks probably should have had a root canal treatment done, but now that there’s a crown it can’t be. He’s suggesting pulling the tooth and doing a dental bridge. I’m getting a second opinion to see if there is another option. I think if I do have to lose the tooth, I’d rather get a dental implant. However, I’ve just now gotten dental insurance and all procedures require a one year waiting period. Will my teeth start to shift in that long of a time period?
Kevin
Dear Kevin,
I’m a little concerned about the dentist you’re seeing. If you need a root canal treatment, you need one. It doesn’t matter if you have a crown. Saving the tooth is the priority. I’m glad you’re getting a second opinion. If at all possible, a tooth should be saved.
I also agree that a dental implant is a better option than a dental bridge, especially for a single tooth. To get a bridge would require both adjacent teeth be ground down for dental crowns. This is a waste of healthy tooth structure.
I’m not sure your dentist is looking out for your best interest as much as what is most convenient for him.
Getting a Dental Implant
Worst case scenario, your tooth has to be extracted. With a waiting period, my suggestion is you get a temporary replacement, like a dental flipper, until the waiting period passes. Even if you were to get the dental implant surgery right away, there is still a waiting period while the surgical site heals and the bone has time to integrate around the dental implant.
Once the healing is done, your dentist will place a dental crown on the implant. It’s like having a healthy, natural tooth again.
Dentists will place something there to hold the space open, just like you can do while you wait on your insurance.
This blog is brought to you by East Cobb Dentist Dr. Cristi Cheek.