Missing tooth with root remaining: implant or bridge?

This an easy straight forward Implant case . Can remove the root and do standard place and graft or wait three weeks for soft tissue closure then standard SRP .. Marylands tend to fail and do damage the adjacent teeth , so keep it simple. It is not an option to do the treatment that fits your skill set , if your are uncomfortable to do the case refer or at least let the patient make the choice . Regards Peter

I agree with Peter. Maryland bridges were an option before the advent of implants. If finances dictate that choice then OK but prepare the patient for inevitable failure. I read somewhere about 15 years ago that if you haven't recemented a few MBs in your career you aren't seeing enough patients. They fail all the time. Even in the best hands. Inform your patient that by doing the bridge you are tying three teeth into the treatment of one and educate them in the Average lifespan of those bridges (5-7 years). Insurance pays for crowns and bridges typically every 5 years. That's when their actuarial tables are telling them that's the average replacement time. So, those two simple things will help them understand the value of the implant. Did I say MBs fail?

I cannot see a root.

I do not see a root either. Even if it is a root remnant is has been for long time is ankylosed and can preserve the buccle bone. Do an implant. Good luck! Best regards. Dime

Why are we even discussing this case? It's elementary.

I frankly dont give two hoots, but if you think it's beneath your intellect to help someone out with what you consider to be a simple problem, then don't comment and look to something befitting your high stature. Ive been practicing a few years now (30) and I recall a wise man once say "there is no such thing as a stupid question. Just stupid people who are afraid to ask the question". I for one was unaware that there was some kind of proficiency level requirement to bring a question. A few years back there was a trend on this site to chastise inexperienced practitioners when they would bring questions to the forum. A "simple" question would often lead to statements that the practitioner shouldn't be handling the case and to refer to an OMS. I for one would rather the doctor ask an elementary question here then be afraid to ask and then try it out on an unsuspecting patient.