Q. I recently visited an NHS dentist as an old crown had come off (root filling still intact), also the outer side of my left upper back tooth had snapped off on its outer side. He advised me that the crowned tooth had decay below the gum line, making it unsuitable for another crown to be fitted. He explained that my options were to either have an extraction, or have the tooth sealed off at gum level. I explained that I was anxious not to have another gap left (I already have one missing tooth due to it breaking down at root level which puts strain on the gum and two teeth either side)and enquired about a bridge being fitted. However, on asking this he appeared evasive and uninterested, stating that because it was a back tooth there was no real need for a bridge, that this would be purely for cosmetic reasons. Am I entitled to bridgework under the NHS? When I mentioned that I would assist by paying privately, he seemed more interested. I have read up on implantology as I have considered this as an alternative. I understand that this involves a CT scan. Could you explain whether the entire body is scanned or is it limited to the area in which the work would be carried out?