Q.
Dear Dr Moore I have a bridge (1 missing tooth upper jaw the 1st molar), placed in 2003. I did not have root canal treatment to any teeth prior to placement. It is porcelain and i assume bonded to metal. When I first had it fitted I noticed little bits of cement in my mouth. I had it fitted whilst I was working in the Cz Republic and therefore I was not able to return for a check-up. I had severe pain for a while and then extreme sensitivity for 3/4/5 years or so. Sensitivity has stopped now, but I get occassional problems. But the main problem has been a continual foul taste coming from the inside gum margin with the back crown. I have visited my UK dentist several times, who assures me the crown/bridge is OK, I had x-rays etc. I did also see another dentist who also took an X-ray and said all was fine and said I had some ‘slight’ gum disease and was advised to use dental brushes and mouthwash – which i do with little effect. I can pull the back crown ‘up and down’ a little, which would suggest to me it is slightly lose, perhaps indicated by the little bits of cement when it was first placed, although my dentist said the bridge is fine. Also if I run my finger along the gum margin it does ‘stink’ and my mouth tastes foul at times.. My boyfriend also says my breath ‘stinks’ which I am sure it does and he has a bad sense of smell. I am assuming my options are to have the bridge removed but I a concerened the ‘posts’ of the crown tooth may come away or some other problem. I have now decided I need to do something, as 6 years of bad breath is no good. Unfortunately 2 dentists have told me nothing is wrong and are reluctant to do anything. Your advice would be greatley appreciated. My apologies for the ramble. Kind regards