How Many Teeth Can Dental Bridges Replace

When a person is missing one or more teeth but does not need a full set of dentures, dental bridges may be recommended to take the place of the lost teeth. The number of teeth that a dental bridge replaces may depend on several factors.

How dental bridges function

Dental bridges consist of two or more crowns that attach to the abutment teeth at each end of the vacant space and connect to one or more artificial teeth called pontics. Bridges are usually constructed from a metal base, covered by porcelain and shaded to match the natural teeth.

Number of teeth a dental bridge can replace

A dental bridge can take the place of a single tooth but is commonly used to restore two, three, four, or more teeth. The greater the number of missing teeth, the more crowns needed to support the bridge and the less stable the bridge tends to be. Dentists use implants to provide additional reinforcement for bridges that replace large numbers of teeth or for patients who do not have strong enough natural teeth to support the bridge. Dental implants may also be used as free-standing teeth to fill gaps that are not adjacent to the bridged area.

Benefits of bridges

People often elect to have missing front teeth restored for aesthetic reasons, but it can also be wise to replace back teeth. When spaces in the gums are left empty, the surrounding teeth can move in the patient's mouth, causing changes to the bite and sometimes resulting in problems such as temporomandibular joint disorders. Bridges also have other aesthetic and functional benefits:

• Restore the appearance of the smile
• Improve chewing and speaking ability
• Maintain the shape of the face
• Distribute bite forces properly

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in Scottsdale, AZ.

Types of bridges

Bridges come in four main types.

1. Traditional bridges use a construction method that melds porcelain with ceramic or metal. These bridges are created by placing a crown or implant on either side of the missing teeth with a pontic in between. This is the most common type of bridge.
2. Cantilever bridges prove useful if there is only a tooth bordering on one side of the vacant space where the missing teeth resided. This type of bridge is used infrequently because of the potential for damage to the natural teeth.
3. Maryland bridges consist of a pontic that is supported by a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the adjacent teeth, rather than supported by crowns. This bridge avoids the need for crowns but may not be as strong as a traditional bridge.
4. Implant-supported bridges are often used when more than one or two missing teeth are being replaced. These bridges do not rely on natural teeth for support. Typically, an implant is placed for each missing tooth, but in cases where this is not possible, implant-supported crowns can be used in the same manner as the natural teeth in a traditional bridge.

Conclusion

Using dental bridges to replace missing teeth can improve the appearance of the smile and the functionality of the teeth. The number of teeth that can be replaced depends on the type of bridge and how many healthy natural teeth the patient has retained.

Request an appointment or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at 480-439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.

Recent Posts

What Is The Purpose Of Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are protective covers or caps that fit over the visible portion of teeth. Over time, teeth endure damage from injuries, tooth decay and other wear and tear. Teeth might become misshapen, cracked, or decayed. Professionals cement the crown atop the tooth to restore its strength, appearance, and size.Crowns may consist of various materials,…

How Dental Crowns Are Bonded To A Tooth

Dental crowns are a great way to repair teeth that are damaged by decay or dental trauma, and they are commonly used for a variety of other purposes as well. While many are familiar with what dental crowns are, it can be helpful to understand exactly how they are bonded to a tooth, particularly if…

Understanding Dental Crowns Versus Veneers

Dental crowns and veneers can both restore the function and appearance of damaged teeth. That damage can take the form of decay, discoloration, chips or cracks, or a crooked appearance. The main difference is that a crown goes over the whole tooth, whereas a veneer only sits on the front. Beyond that, there are pros…