dental bridge Archives - 5 Star Dental Group

I paid $2,200 for a partial denture to replace my left canine tooth. My dentist first did a root canal on the tooth that failed. Afterward, she said she needed to extract the tooth and do a bridge. The bridge broke within two weeks. My dentist said I should have been wearing a night guard (the first I’ve heard of it). She will repair the dental bridge for $1,500 if I sign a release. I have other dental issues with the teeth under the bridge my dentist placed, so my insurance company will not pay for the bridge. I’ve had jaw pain and earaches since I got the bridge in April. Do I have to file a lawsuit to get a refund? Thanks, Jude

Jude,

Tell your dentist you will not sign the release or sue her if she gives you a refund. If your dentist is unwilling to issue a refund, consult a lawyer.

Diagram of the temporomandibular joint and surrounding structures

A prosthodontist can replace your dental bridge, harmonize your bite, and relief your TMJ symptoms

You can also report the case to the state dental board and your dental insurance company. If the company refuses to pay for your dental bridge, they recognize your dentist’s negligence. Explain to your dentist that you will not take legal action or report the issue if she refunds you.

More importantly, you must replace your dental bridge and protect your teeth. Schedule an exam with an experienced prosthodontist to evaluate the condition of your bridge and teeth. You can get a bridge with a durable foundation and high-strength crowns that look natural. The prosthodontist will harmonize your bite, which should relieve your jaw pain and earaches, which are likely TMJ related.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post.

Last September, I had a root canal that went bad. My dentist tried to save the tooth, but he couldn’t. So last week, he extracted the tooth. It’s a front tooth, too. I’m going back and forth with whether to replace it with a dental bridge or an implant. And I’m not sure if I’ll let my dentist do the work or find a new dentist to do it. Other than the cost, would I be making a mistake if I asked for a bridge? Thanks, Octavia from Charleston, SC

Octavia,

There are several factors to consider when you have a missing tooth. It is essential to replace the tooth for function and appearance, but you should consider the long-term effects of treatment on your budget and your oral health.

Dental Implant vs. Bridge

Model of a dental crown and dental implant with a crown

Dental implant considerations: If you receive a dental implant, it will not affect teeth on either side of the missing one. A dentist or surgeon places the implant in your jawbone. After a healing period, your dentist will attach a dental crown. You can get an implant and a temporary replacement tooth on the same day. Dental implants are generally more expensive than a dental bridge, but they are also permanent. The implant will look and feel like your natural teeth. High-quality implants can last a lifetime.

Dental bridge considerations: The bridge work will be less expensive than an implant. The tooth on either side of the missing tooth must be shaved down for the bridge to fit over it. The missing tooth is suspended between the two crowns. If you take good care of it, a bridge can last ten to fifteen years. It will eventually need to be replaced.

In either case, select an artistic cosmetic dentist to do the work. Whether you choose a dental implant or a bridge, you will get natural-looking results. If you choose an implant, avoid looking for cheap implants or insisting on getting the lowest cost for them. Costly implant mistakes can occur when shortcuts are taken.

We suggest that you schedule consultations with at least two cosmetic dentists to discuss your options and the cost.

San Antonio dentist Dr. Gilberto Tostado sponsors this post.

My Dental Bridge Broke in Two Months, and Insurance Won’t Pay

Should I Get a Dental Implant or a Bridge?

Dental Implant vs. Bridge