Dental Implants - Decision process

[TheGriffter]

Hi All, I am after a bit of assistance regarding dental implants. I have done a fair amount of research, but would like to hear in particular from the resident PH dentists as to my current position and approach.

Background
Back in October I had teeth (5) that were extracted and along with some previous extractions means that now I have some areas that I am considering having implants for.

I now have 4 teeth in a row missing (Upper Left - Canine through to first molar). The recommendation from my dentist is to have a 4 unit bridge, based on 2 implants which seems appropriate, using the Straumann system. There are also a couple of single teeth that I am considering for single implants (one Lower Right, one upper right).

My dental practice does do implant work, but my particular dentist who has been excellent through all the extractions and other work, does not. I have met the implantologist at the practice and he seems very knowledgeable, but openly admits that he hasn’t done hundreds and hundreds of these. I have seen a few examples, pictures and references that he had available (<5). He also does some teaching work in the field of implantology but I don’t know the extent/level of this.

I visited an alternative dentist from a specialist dental implant for a consultation (just a quick exam and assessment, no CT scan). These were found via Google, but they seem to be a reputable and national series of clinics. The implantologist there was more experienced, with specialism in implants and maxillofacial surgery (I had to look it up!) and had literally done thousands of placements.

I have a third appointment with another dentist who was recommended to me by someone who has had implant work done by them.

Questions
So after the waffle and background I am asking:

• The extractions are healing very nicely according to my dentist so is now the right time to get going on this?
• Am I approaching this in a sensible way, is there anything else to consider?
• Straumann were recommended and quoted by my dental practice as “the roll-royce of implants”. What are the experts views on the system, its longevity, ease to work with, benefits v cost etc.?
• Adin and Bio Horizons have also been discussed briefly but I’m unsure if they are of higher or lower grade – thoughts?

I appreciate individual circumstances dictate the most appropriate system, but any feedback, advice or other options (like save the money and buy a M3 instead) will be appreciated either via this thread or PM if preferred.

Cheers, Griff

[TheGriffter]

Wow, Driller - thanks for taking the time for such a comprehensive response.

Obviously depending on bone density, the single implant/crown at canine and then 2 implants supporting 3 unit bridge really makes sense and gives lower chance of failure later. Whilst obviously a consideration, cost is not my primary decision making factor and I may even do that in addition to, rather than in place of one of the other implants (lower right).

Great to hear that Straumann would be what you would go for if you had to have implants.

I have had the 4 tooth gap for just over 3 months, post extractions, although yesterday I got a partial denture that covers the 4 tooth gap. My original thoughts were that this might actually be a long term solution and implants would not be needed; one day of dribbling, inability to speak and drinking coffee that I couldn't really taste led me to conclude the implants, well planned and placed are definitely the way forward!

I will go and complete the consultations, but feel confident that I will be much better placed to discuss the treatment plans, risks etc.

Thanks again - I will post up progress and probably ask daft questions as I progress.