My front teeth bridge (teeth 7, 8, & 9) is in trouble. Tooth 7 had a root canal and needed extra support, and the post snapped at the gumline. The bridge is shaky. I got the bridge in 2021. I need a dentist skilled in fixing broken posts, especially in front teeth. Any recommendations? – Alan
Alan,
We understand this is a frustrating situation with your bridge.
The broken post poses a tricky problem:
- Removal can be difficult: Without anything to grab, a dentist needs special tools like ultrasonic scalers. It could require removing tooth structure around the post, weakening tooth #7 even further.
- A new bridge is likely needed: To access the post, a dentist must remove the existing bridge crown would need to be removed.
- Durability concerns: Even a new post may not last due to potential bite forces that may have contributed to the original breakage.
What Are Your Options If a Tooth Post Breaks?
Dental implant
If A tooth post breaks, the options may include replacing the post or getting a new dental bridge or dental implants.
- New tooth post: As discussed earlier, replacing the post is risky.
- Dental implants: Based on your situation you may need two dental implants – one for the missing tooth and one for tooth #7. This offers permanent, stable tooth replacement.
- Longer bridge (risky): As an alternative, a longer 4-unit bridge could be attempted, but this puts extra stress on adjacent teeth and might not be sustainable given your history of breakage.
Schedule an in-person evaluation by an accredited cosmetic dentist to confirm the optimal approach. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and discuss all options with your dentist to make an informed decision.
In Beverly Hills, Dr. Brian LeSage is an accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry.