Health Beat: Bridges, Dentures and Implants (Oh, My)
By Mark McNease
As anyone knows who has not simply let their teeth fall out, effectively gumming their way through life, dental work is incredibly expensive.
In some ways I consider myself fortunate to only have about 8 ‘real teeth’ left. You can’t need expensive dental work on teeth you don’t have! The rest—those spaces where my natural choppers used to be—are filled in by very reasonable facsimiles with the cumulative price of a small automobile.
My lower front teeth were replaced about 15 years ago with a permanent bridge. The dentist, now long-retired, did a good enough job. They’re still there, still permanent, and will most likely last until they escort my body to the crematorium. The problem has been the top teeth. They, too, were initially replaced with a permanent bridge, but it had been anchored to a couple teeth I had left, and it was a mistake. The bridge came loose about 10 years ago, and I got a partial denture instead. By then I was I my 50s, married, and determined not to spend another small fortune to replace something I could just take out at night for a much better price.
As anyone knows who has not simply let their teeth fall out, effectively gumming their way through life, dental work is incredibly expensive. I’d paid approximately $10,000 for each of those bridges. Out of pocket. That is not a typo! So when I had to get a replacement for the top one that had proven not to be so permanent, I refused to shell out another ten grand. The partial option was only $2,000, so that’s what I went with. I quickly learned that Polident is my friend, and I found other ways to spend the difference.
A few weeks ago one of the teeth broke off. I knew the denture was getting old, and now it’s time to replace it. To my great relief, I’m getting a new partial denture for just over $1,000. Maybe because they have more options these days with the material they use. I’ve even wondered if they can create them now with a 3D printer, making better use of the technology than churning out guns for sale on the streets of New Orleans. Or maybe being in New Jersey instead of New York has something to do with the reduced price. In any case, I’m thrilled to be paying ‘only’ a thousand dollars, and I expect it to last me until there’s no point in getting another one. Perhaps some archeologist in the distant future will find them and imagine the life lived by whoever’s smile they once improved.
Let’s talk options
Bridges Versus Dentures And Dental Implants
When it comes to restoring missing teeth, patients have several options, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The most common choices include partial bridges (dentures), permanent bridges, and dental implants.
Partial Bridges (Removable Partial Dentures)
Pros:
– Cost-Effective: Generally, partial bridges are less expensive upfront compared to dental implants and permanent bridges.
– Non-Invasive: They don’t require surgery, making them suitable for patients who can’t undergo surgical procedures (or those of us who simply refuse to! I’ll save the pain and recover time for a new hip)
– Ease of Adjustment: Can be easily modified or adjusted as needed.
– Quick Turnaround: Usually made and fitted more quickly than implants or permanent bridges. Mine will be ready in less than two weeks.
Cons:
– Comfort and Stability: Being removable, they may feel less natural and can cause discomfort or slipping, especially if fit isn’t perfect. I got used to the sensation of plastic on the roof of my mouth years ago, after getting the first partial. I don’t even notice it anymore.
– Maintenance: Require daily removal and cleaning, increasing the risk of oral hygiene issues if not maintained properly. But if you find putting your teeth in a small plastic container with a cleanser every night too much trouble, you should probably just go toothless.
– Impact on Adjacent Teeth: Clasps may put stress on neighboring teeth, potentially leading to wear or damage over time.
– Longevity: Typically have a shorter lifespan (about 5-10 years – bingo!) and may need replacement or repair.
Permanent Bridge
Pros:
– Fixed Solution: Cemented in place, providing a stable, natural feel akin to real teeth.
– Improved Function: Better biting and chewing capabilities compared to removable options.
– Aesthetic Appeal: Can be closely matched to natural teeth in color and appearance.
– Less Maintenance: No removal required; just regular dental hygiene.
Cons:
– Tooth Preparation: Requires removal of some healthy tooth structure from adjacent teeth for supporting crowns.
– Longevity: Usually lasts between 10-15 years, depending on oral hygiene and habits. Mine are probably good for a lifetime—I’ve had zero problems with the lower one.
– Potential for Decay: If not properly maintained, decay can develop at the supporting teeth.
– Cost: More expensive than partial dentures, though typically less than implants. There may be better things to spend $10,000 on, it’s a loss/benefit analysis.
Dental Implants
Pros:
– Durability and Longevity: Can last a lifetime with proper care.
– Bone Preservation: Stimulates jawbone growth, preventing bone loss often associated with missing teeth.
– Natural Feel and Function: Mimics natural teeth closely in appearance and function.
– No Impact on Adjacent Teeth: Does not require altering neighboring teeth, preserving their health.
Cons:
– Surgical Procedure: Requires oral surgery, which may involve risks and a longer healing process. This was never an option I would consider, but I know a lot of people who have.
– Cost: Usually the most expensive option upfront. Yes, that’s right. Evern more expensive than a permanent bridge. At some point I’m going to want that money in retirement. Like now.
– Time-Intensive: The process from placement to final restoration can take several months.
– Not Suitable for All: Certain health conditions or insufficient bone density may limit eligibility.
Choosing between partial bridges, permanent bridges, and dental implants depends on various factors such as oral health, budget, jawbone density, and personal preferences. At this point in my life, cost is very important. I’ve been with the same man for 19 years, married for 12, and he doesn’t even notice when I’ve ‘put my teeth in a jar’ just before strapping on the CPAP and falling asleep. My vanity went the way of my youth some time ago.