I've had mine for about 12 years and it is fantastic...I am completely satisfied and would do it again...Take care...

Caroline

Caroline - Thank you for the reply. Upon further research the implant option would cost $7,000 for filling in the lower area as opposed to the initial $5,000 estimate. My dentist says the implant option is the only real way to go, but then again, he is 30 years old and upgrading to a Bennett Bros sailboat. We may have slightly different priorities.

I agree on the priorities...I figure my mouth is expensive enough without adding more than I have to it...Good luck and I hope that you will be as happy with your bridge as I have been with mine...Take care.....

Caroline

A removable bridge, or removable partial denture is a great way to replace several teeth at low cost. There are a few drawbacks that you should be aware of. The first of which is what you mentioned.

1. It does rely on the teeth next to the missing teeth to lach onto. It doesn't necessaily require the teeth adjecent to be capped but there are times when this is necessary. If any of these teeth were to someday have to go, the whole thing is pretty worthless so save with caution.

2. It can be rather bulky and many people find them uncomfortable. Some people love them, others hate them, you could be either.

3. Because it uses your gums and teeth as support and less teeth (unlike your old glued in bridge) it doesn feel quite like real teeth at all.

All in all implants with crowns are a superior restoration for long term and can save them money long run if other teeth fail. However I always understand if its not within a patients affordability. Perhaps a compromise you may propose to the dentist is to place one implant to clip on your removeable bridge to. It provides extra comfort to you and takes additional stress away from other teeth. And if for some reason you need to have more teeth pulled one day it can be used for your next restorations.

Hope that helps.

JiffyDent - Thank you for that detailed explanation of a removable dental bridge. Your thoughtful suggestions will be considered as I weigh my dental options.