How Many Front Teeth Can Be Replaced With A Bridge?

Jul 04, 2022

What Is a Dental Bridge?

It is a dental restoration that replaces missing teeth. Typically, dental bridges near you feature two dental crowns and an artificial replacement tooth. It makes them perfect for replacing one missing tooth. However, you can get dental bridges in Ellicott City, MD, for replacing more than one of your missing teeth.

How do Dental Bridges Work?

A dentist will first numb your mouth with local anesthesia, rendering the treatment painless. After that, (s)he will prepare the adjacent teeth. Preparation entails trimming teeth’ enamel to make room for dental crowns. After preparation, the dentist takes impressions of your mouth. The impressions will help create snug-fitting dental bridges that will function optimally. The creation of your bridgework can take up to two weeks. Meanwhile, the dentist will place temporary dental crowns over the adjacent teeth, protecting them during the waiting period.

Once your bridgework is ready, you have to visit your Ellicott City dentistry a second time. The dentist will install the bridgework through dental bonding. It comprises applying dental cement to the tooth bridge, then hardening it with lasers to adhere to natural teeth.

How Can Dental Bridges Replace Multiple Missing Teeth?

Dental bridges are perfect for replacing one missing tooth at a time. Therefore, if you have several missing teeth spread out in different locations in your mouth, dental bridges are perfect for you. However, dentists can replace more than one lost tooth.

The only way for a dental bridge to replace more than one tooth is if they are in a row. This way, a dentist near you will introduce multiple artificial teeth when creating the bridgework. It would, therefore, entail two dental crowns and multiple replacement teeth.

For a dental bridge to be effective, it can only replace up to three missing teeth in a row. Therefore, one dental bridge should hold up to three artificial teeth, held in place by two dental crowns. Rarely do dentists create dental bridges with four or more artificial teeth since any more than three false teeth would create an unstable bridgework. Instead, our dental team at Excel Dental Care will recommend getting partial dentures.

How Long Will Such a Dental Bridge Last?

Typically, a dental bridge should last about 10 years. However, a three-tooth dental bridge can last a lesser period, usually five to seven years. It will not be sturdy and stable enough to withstand repeated pressure and activity over the years. The stakes are higher if you get a four tooth dental bride.

How Can You Make Your Long Dental Bridge Last a Long Time?

The durability of dental bridges is not just dependent on the material and the type of bridgework. Instead, your aftercare measures post-treatment influence the lifespan of the dental bridge. Some of the tips to maintain your dental bridges for a long time are:

  • Opt for two dental crowns – there are different types of dental bridges. They differ based on the supporting system. A traditional dental bridge features two dental crowns, while a cantilever bridge features one. If you want a three-tooth dental bridge, get a traditional dental bridge. The two dental crowns will make for a sturdier and more stable bridgework than their counterparts.
  • Visit your dentist regularly – routine dental exams allow your dentist to evaluate the state of your bridgework. Ay repair job necessary to increase the lifespan of your dental bridges is only possible if the dentist can detect anomalies early. Besides, routine dental cleanings are crucial for keeping your mouth clean and free from bacteria that cause infections.
  • Abandon bad oral habits – including fingernail biting, opening lids and cans with your teeth, and teeth grinding. If these oral habits can damage your natural teeth, how much more will they damage your dental bridge?
  • Gravitate toward soft foods – tough-to-chew foods may not only break your dental bridge, but also weaken it. Ensure your food is well-cooked. When eating raw fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots, cut them into smaller pieces instead of eating them in whole.
  • Brush your teeth at least twice every day – you cannot harbor plaque and tartar in your mouth as they will compromise the state of your dental bridge.

    • Back to Blog
    Call Now Book Now
    Accessibility by WAH
    Click to listen highlighted text!