Dental implants, anyone?

Dental implants, anyone?
What I need is advice from someone, who has had experience with a dental implant. My research on the subject has yielded nothing but the highest praise for this state-of-the-art dental technique. Nevertheless, I'm still a bit sceptical. The problem is that I should decide by tomorrow, whether to choose an implant (molar), or root canal therapy and a double crown. Any and all input would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.
To Johnny Baggs: Many thanks for your expert opinion! Here are some more details: The molar in question was crowned some 30 years ago. Twice within the past 2 1/2 years, an abscess has developed on the gum beneath this crown - the last abscess was drained two days ago (very painful procedure that was, too!). X-rays show that there is a gap (I'm afraid that I don't know the technical term) between the tooth and gum line, which permits anaerobic bacteria to form. A CO2 vitality test done two days ago produced no sensation, although the tooth was alive on 2nd May. The "double crown" option would, I assume, be two crowns placed next to each other, which would allow a certain aeration of the gap. I live in Switzerland, where dentists charge the world! My dentist of 15 year's standing would charge about $2400 for an implant and even more for root canal therapy and double crown. The possibility of implant complications worry me. I'd be so grateful to hear your thoughts! Thousand thanks!


Answers:

skifaster6:  I had a root canal that was done 20 years ago and it went bad as all root canals do over time. I then got a implant which I have had for 3 years. Implants are permanent as they use a stell rod drilled into your bone. Plus, they are super strong and look just like your other teeth. They do cost a little more but trust me, they are worth it. Get the implant.
2006-06-14 05:34:24
Italiano:  I have contracts with doctors offices and one of them is a dentist.....my own opinion is that you would be better off with the implants, less work, less pain! However, since I am not an expert in this area I could always get you the number for the doctor.
2006-06-14 05:38:32
Brownie_baby:  There is enough implants out here as it is. I would suggest doing it the natural way which is the root canal. What people today fail to realize is the reverse affects of implants can be detrimental You have to think about the long term affects as well.
2006-06-14 05:39:45
cailin:  Defenetly get the implant done!!!! I had to make the same decision 6 years ago. My dentist explained to me both ways. I know the implants are far more expensive, but it is worth it.If you think long term, it isn' t more expensive, because you have the implants for life! I heard people with the root canal have had many problems after a few years, didn't hear anything bad about the implants yet. Go to your dentist, he/she will explain to you how the implants are fixed in your mouth. You might find it a bit disgusting, but you will have no pain. I didn't even had pain after the operation. It is really like your own teeth. You can eat and bite anything. My personal opinion, I think the implants are the business!!! Go for it!
2006-06-14 06:27:53
Chosen Answer
dre@itsa.ucsf.edu:  The root canal has its advantages, in that treatment can be completed in less time on your part. However, if you have lots of time and are willing to go throught the extra expense now and implant is a great option. why can't you get the RCT and Crown now? and the implant in 15 years or so when the crown and tooth fail? Nothing last for ever, But impants are getting very predicable.

One bit of advice Molars implants take time. don't rush the dentist to place your implant too soon. Give it at least 4 months. Unless your dentist has placed thousands of implants. He should give it about 4 months (preferably 6) between extraction and implant placement.
2006-06-14 09:28:27
thecharleslloyd:  Well it's all up to how strong your jaw is to take the implant. The root canal would suggest may be not. Decaying teeth rot it. Ask your dentist if they think your jaw is up to it. If you can save the tooth with a crown do it (that's my view on the matter) Save the implant until you really need it
2006-06-14 13:18:52
Johnny Baggs:  I don't think you should do the implant if you can save the tooth but what exactly is a "double crown"?

In the right hands a root canal will last decades, if not forever.

I do implants and I would only do if there were no other option.If the end result with a root canal is doubtful then it may be better to extract it but just to do the implant to save time is a stupid choice.Implants are not without problems and they tend to be bigger problems .

The problem is too many dentists want to do implants for the wrong reasons which gives us all a bad reputation just 'cos they need to send their kids to college.

I hope you make the right choice but a full assessment is needed to give you really useful advice which I can't give you at this moment in time.
2006-06-14 23:16:59
oral_doc:  Dental Implants are a very predictable alternative for the replacement of teeth. Sometimes, however, a traditional three unit fixed bridge is just as good. It depends on the health of the adjacent teeth (if there are any!)
Dental implants range in price - depending on the implant system and the type of prosthetic attachments (custom vs prefab) shop around... make sure your getting a good bang for your buck and that your treating dentist's are properly trained and have experience in placing and restoring the implants... write back for specifics if you like...
2006-06-15 06:11:04