Expert: Rafael Mosery,D.D.S. - 12/29/2009

Question
My right lower molar next to my wisdom tooth was replaced with a crown some 10 to 15 years ago.  It is now very loose and my dentist has told me it has to be replaced with either a bridge or an implant.  Since I have already had root canal on this tooth would it be easier to get an implant (not covered by my insurance) or a bridge (50% covered).  Money is not that important of an issue as I can afford to pay for the implant.  I am concerned with safety issues involved with both procedures.  I have heard that implants can get infected and have to be removed.

Answer
The tooth being removed is a second molar,that means a bridge will have to involve your wisdom tooth and the first molar.An implant could just replace the missing tooth and leave the 2 adjacent teeth intact.The restoration of choice is definately an implant if you have the adequate bone remaining in the area or if itcould be grafted to yield an adequate site.Go with the implant.Infection should not be an issue if you are a healthy individual.