Missing ten permanent teeth

[joanadan3]

My 13 y/o is missing ten (yes, ten) permanent teeth.  She's been in braces forever and we are looking toward dental implants when she is a few years older.  However, I read where implants only last around15 years - is this true?  Cost is definitely a factor since we have already spent a small fortune, so I am thinking bridge instead of the implants.  Opinions??  Is there any other procedure we might consider?  Thanks.

[Michael H Kirsch, DDS]

Current thought is that bridges only last about 10 years, and I do not agree with dental implants only lasting15 yrs.  One significant problem with bridges is that you must destroy at least two perfectly healthy teeth in your childs mouth for each tooth being replaced.  I do not consider that "conservative."  

Since your child has a medical condition called partial anodontia it may be covered by medical insurance.

While bridges may seem like the less costly alternatives at first, they will probably cost significantly more than implant over your childs lifetime.

Information contained within this reply is intended solely for general educational purposes and is not intended nor implied to be a medical diagnosis or treatment recommendation.  This is not a substitute for professional medical advice relative to your specific medical condition or question. Always seek the advice of your own doctor for medical condition. Only your doctor can provide specific diagnoses and therapies.

[joanadan3]

I've been told that our health insurance may pay for it, but I did not know the actual name of the medical conditon - thank you.  She also has an underbite for which she is wearing the headgear at night, but I don't think it's working since I see little if any improvement.  Are there other options re: this condition?  Thanks.