Should I have a Bridge or an Implant?

[Jan]

I have recently had one of my premolar teeth taken out. Im now in two minds as to whether to go for a bridge or an implant to replace it?

The teeth next door do have fillings in them. They are small white fillings. Also how long should I wait before having either of those dental treatments done?

Im 54 years old. Money isn’t a worry, as long as quality treatment is carried out. I see that you provide both bridges and dental implants, so could you pls advise.

[Dr Mohsen J. Esfahani]

A dental implant is usually the treatment of choice to replace a tooth as long as you do not have any contraindications to it. Dental bridges involve shaving down the neighbouring teeth which is best avoided if possible as its irreversible.

Dental bridges are more difficult to clean as they involve splinting teeth together and poor cleaning may result in decay developing around the bridge margin.

However there are situations when dental implants are not ideal treatment as well such as people who are not fit for surgery or those who suffer from active gum disase or those who are heavy smokers.