Did your dentist recommend a dental bridge instead of a dental implant?
If your dentist is recommending a dental bridge over a dental implant to replace a missing tooth then Dr. Nugent implores you to come to his office for a second opinion. It could be that your dentist is not current with the latest in dentistry and is still doing old fashioned dentistry they learned in dental school. Or it could be because your dentist is thinking about profit margins instead of the best dental care. Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Dr. Nugent has completed dental implants on his father, father-in-law and mother-in-law. Dr. Nugent wanted the best treatment for his family and that is why he replaced their missing teeth with dental implants. Dr. Nugent offers his patients the same treatment options he recommends to his family.
Reasons why a dentist would inappropriately recommend a bridge instead of a dental implant:
A dental bridge generates immediate income for that dentist. An old fashioned bridge can be made in a relatively quick period. Therefore, the dentist gets paid right away. Whereas, a dental implant can take months to complete. The immediate cash flow may be beneficial for the dentist but the bridge may not be in the patient’s best interest.
More income can be made for the dentist recommending a dental bridge. For the usual three unit bridge dentists charge between 3,000 and 4,000 dollars. That cost is paid at the dentist’s office. Dr. Nugent and his oral surgeons work as a team to give the best dental implant results possible. If Dr. Nugent can not do your dental implant at his office then her will refer you to his oral surgeons. About half the cost of the dental implant is paid at the oral surgeon’s office and the other half is paid at Dr. Nugent’s office. Thus, Dr. Nugent’s office earns less revenue when Dr. Nugent recommends a dental implant over a bridge. Dr. Nugent cares about giving his patients the best dental care possible. The dentist recommending a bridge instead of a dental implant may simply be recommending this treatment out of greed. If Dr. Nugent completes your dental implant from surgery to restoration it involves several visits and more time then if Dr. Nugent has done a bridge. Thus, a bridge is more profitable because it is quicker and takes less appointment visits.
The dentist recommending a dental bridge over a dental implant may not be current with the latest dental knowledge. Let’s face it, it is easier to do what you know then take the time and effort to learn new procedures. Even though dental implants have been used successfully in patients for many years it was not until recently that dental implants were taught in dental school. Most dentists never received any information about dental implants in dental school. These same dentists have not invested in their education to learn about the tremendous benefits of dental implants. Dr. Nugent was in the first dental school class at the Houston Dental School to have dental implants taught in the curriculum. After graduation Dr. Nugent has continued to take continuing education classes on dental implants. Dental implants are a big part of Dr. Nugent’s practice.
Dental Bridges cause Bone and Gum Tissue to Vanish
Old fashioned bridges do NOTHING to preserve or stimulate the bone and gum tissue. Thus, with a bridge the bone and gum underneath will shrink slowly over time. This cause a depression in the gum tissue leaving a very ugly gap that people can see. Also, that gap will collect and pack food.
Bone and Gum Tissue Loss Under Dental Bridge
Some dentists will suggest a bridge to replace a missing tooth because they lack the skill and knowledge to work with dental implants. Some dentists do not have the proficiency, knowledge, equipment or skills required for dental implant dentistry. These dentist are more comfortable recommending a bridge because that is what they know how to do. It is unfortunate that so many dentists barely meet their continuing education requirements for their dental license. These dentists simply do not get the knowledge that they need to become a competent dental implant dentist.
Insurance coverage and payment may influence a dentist to recommend a bridge over a dental implant. Unfortunately, most dental insurances will cover bridges and not dental implants. Therefore, a dentist may recommend a bridge knowing that the insurance will pay the dentist for the bridge.
A dentist may say there is not enough space for a dental implant so a bridge is the only option. When teeth are lost the remaining teeth will collapse into the missing space. This can sometimes cause a problem where there is not enough room for a dental implant. However, with orthodontics the teeth can be put back in their proper orientation and open up enough space for a dental implant. Although orthodontics is an additional procedure, it is well worth it if a dental implant can be placed instead of a bridge.
Dental implants are the most technologically advanced way to replace missing teeth. Dental implants look, feel and function just like natural teeth. This is because dental implants are designed to replicate natural teeth. The dental implant is firmly implanted in the bone where it stimulates and preserves bone levels. No special cleaning of the dental implant is required. Patients brush and floss their dental implant just like a natural tooth. Dental implants cannot get cavities and will never need root canals. The myriad of dental implant benefits make dental implants the standard of care when replacing missing teeth. Before you choose to get a dental bridge, call 713-941-8261 to schedule a dental implant consultation.
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