Dental Implants

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This is my story. I had to have a root canal and cap on a the tooth that is right in front of my large molars (it is tooth number 18, I think). Since it was not a large molar with 4 roots I had to have a post put in in order to hold the cap. Long story short - post loosened up & cracked the tooth. Tooth was removed and a permanent bridge was installed that spans the teeth on either side of the space.

So this is my problem. One of the teeth that was holding the bridge in place has broken and is rotting underneath the bridge that was cemented on top of it. I was told I could have a removeable bridge put in but that since I am 40 the dentist considered me "too young". He suggested a dental implant instead. It would involve removing the bad tooth and putting a post in on either side of the now two missing teeth. They would then cement in a permanent bridge.

I was told the entire process takes about 4 months because you have to let the jaw heal. What I would like to know is if anyone has had implants and what impression is of them? How was the healing process? Would you do it again? It is going to cost me several thousand dollars to do this (insurance only covers it partially because it is considered "cosmetic" compared to a removeable bridge).

Any info. would be GREATLY appreciated.