Klarinet Archive - Posting 000259.txt from 2003/08

From: "Anthony Wakefield" <tony-w@-----.uk>
Subj: Re: [kl] Dental Advice
Date: Sun, 10 Aug 2003 16:58:45 -0400

> Just lost near enough all of the visible part of one of my upper front
teeth.

Hi Ian,
Very sorry to hear your news.
I had bridge treatment privately which cost me £750 + cost of a temporary
bridge which I think was £60. Had it almost 12 months now and it`s
wonderful. Same shape and size as old originals. Playing clarinet is exactly
the same as before.

I did enquire at first about an implant. You have to be tested first for
allergies to the metal implant, into which is then screwed the tooth. But at
£1500 pounds + £50 consultation, and at the end of that, no guarantees that
it will "take" once the implant is placed into your upper jawbone - this
involves a minor op. after which you must be escorted home, with pain
killers. If for any reason it doesn`t "take", (not very often, but possible,
you are warned of this at the outset), any extra costs will be down to you.
You are not allowed to blow your nose, or sneeze for a couple of weeks,
while the implant settles in.
I had the consultation, read the comprehensive "rules" and backed out,
choosing the bridge instead.
I believe Kenny Baker (trumpet) had a mouthful of implants: he`s dead
now - - - - - !

With a bridge, the two teeth either side have to be crowned, so you will
lose your other remaining front tooth as a "complete" tooth; and of course
the other tooth on the other side. Something to think about. But this is how
I am.
The bridge, I`m told can last for up to 10 years. I believe others in here
still have them after 20. The implant will last longer, and this is
something to seriously consider, age wise, (you are younger than me are you
not?) I`m 61, so the bridge will see me through.
Feel free to ask anything else.
Very best of luck.
Tony W.

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