Archive for February, 2012

Is there a procedure that uses both dental implants and a bridge?

Wednesday, February 29th, 2012

I have a space where an adult tooth never came in, have no insurance, and I need something to fill in the gap. The gap seems a little too small to have an implant but I’m not quite sure. I am wondering if there is another way that I can receive an implant together with a bridge? Or if implants can be placed no matter what the space is?

Thanks, Tony

Dear Tony,

There are instances when a dental implant is connected to a dental bridge, however this is not necessary in your case. You have one  missing tooth so your dental options would be either a dental implant or a dental bridge, but not both. However if your space is too small for an implant or a bridge you might be a good candidate for Invisalign, depending on the space location. Invisalign is clear braces and if your teeth are not quite perfect this might be your best option to close the space and have straight teeth. Without insurance a dental bridge can cost up to several thousand dollars and usually takes two appointments completed over a three week period of time. A dental implant from start to finish cost anywhere from $4000 on up and takes approximately six months from the initial placement of the implant to having the crown put on the implant. Invisiline treatment is anywhere from 18 to 24 months and can cost roughly $5000. We recommend you consult a dentist about what treatment options would be best for you, your budget, and your time.

Post courtesy of Dr. Malone, Lafayette Louisiana Cosmetic Dentist

 

 

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Is there a way to floss between a bridge and the gum?

Thursday, February 9th, 2012

Is it necessary to floss under a bridge? I have read that these are tight-fitting against the gum to prevent food from getting trapped between the bridge and gum. I had gum disease over a year ago, had teeth extracted, and a bridge placed after everything was cleaned up. Now I am having problems with a swollen gum under the front bottom of the bridge. It’s swollen to the point of bleeding around the bridge even when the bottom lip is simply pulled back.

Thanks, Gary

Dear Gary,

Yes, it is necessary to floss under a dental bridge daily, even more so if you were previously treated for gum disease. Flossing daily will help in the prevention of further bone loss around the teeth. There could be two reasons why your gums are swollen and bleeding around your bridge. Due to the fact that you have not been flossing under it, there is a big possibility that your teeth anchoring your bridge are reinfected with gum disease and may need to be retreated. Another problem could be that your dental bridge was placed right after the teeth were extracted therefore the extraction site may have not had the proper time to heal which can cause a similar affect on the tissue under the bridge.

There are different types of bridge floss threaders available in the toothpaste isle at your local store to help you clean under your bridge. Ask your dental hygienist at your next cleaning appointment to show you how to floss properly around your bridge. We recommend you discuss this matter with your dentist to find the root of the problem with your bleeding gums.

Post courtesy of Dr. Malone, Lafayette Louisiana Cosmetic Dentist

 

 

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