I've recently been told by my dentist (via xray) that underneath one of my teeth there is a large dark area which is the start of an infection. The tooth in question is capped with a gold crown which had many problems staying put (I think it was the 3rd attempt to make it stay in place). I was extremely annoyed at having to go back & forth with this crown problem (the second attempt came out as I was on my way on holiday - which made 4 days of fun!!). Anyway, my dentist has suggested either having the tooth removed, having a bridge fitted or having a implant done. As it's a large lower backish tooth that helps me chew stuff I don't really want it removed as it will leave a large gap. Don't really fancy a bridge and I'm told that the implant cost about £1,500 to £2,500. Don't mind shelling out for this but is it worth it?

Has anyone out there had the same problems and if so, what did you opt for in the end and what's your experience?

I had the same problem a while back and my dentist said I needed root canal treatment which was very painful....but not half as painful as the preparation for the bridge. I stopped treatment half way thru and just got the tooth removed. I was really not happy to do this but as it was a back tooth I thot it wouldnt be so bad. It took a long time to get used to the gap but it is not noticeable at all and I no longer have the pain....BLISS!!!!!

Yes, not only was I in the dental field but had the same sort of problem years ago. I had the tooth extracted and a nesbit made. It was inexpensive and works to this day. Basically it's a removeable appliance, a little partial if you will...good luck. Alot less expensive than a bridge also.

Just have the tooth removed and nothing else done if it is a molar, and no one will see it when you smile. Seriously I had my second from last lower tooth removed over 10 years ago. The back tooth moved forward a bit and thus I don't really have much of a gap and eating is no problem. Getting a bridge you are just setting yourself up for problems later in life because a bridge involves having to remove part of the tooth from both neighbouring teeth, turning them into stubs. And it really isn't worth paying up to £2000+ for an implant that no one is going to see. Go with the gap if it is just the one tooth, and save yourself the money!! But if you really do not want a gap then go with the implant. At least them you are not having healthy tooth removed from the neighbouring teeth.

Being in the profession i would choose a implant every time!

It is a big out lay to start but over the years they pay for themselves.

I have assisted when people have had this procedure done and it is not half as bad as people make out,quite simple really.

Qualified Dental Nurse