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Question:
My four front teeth (upper) are gone. One dentist says the distance is too great to bridge, another recommends a bridge. My canine teeth are very large and healthy. With the temporary plate that I have, I cannot eat an apple,etc. In other words I am careful with what I bite. Are there situations when a bridge in this area would be OK? ...Lyn in AR
Answer:
Lyn, absolutely, a skilled dentist can use 2 strong cuspid to make a 6 unit
bridge, as long as the cuspids have favorable root:crown ratios. In other
words you need some really strong roots on those cuspids.
If there is a question of strength, your dentist can always use an additional 1 or 2 premolars on each side for extra strength, however your cost may start exceeding the expense of putting in implants, which would be my first choice.
The first thing that your dentist must look at is the bite to make sure that your back teeth are in good alignment and your entire bite will not become a problem later on. Your mouth must be very well balanced for a bridge to hold long term in the front.
If you want another opinion look up a prosthodontist in your area. They are more skilled at bigger bridges and implants. Get more opinions, but don't do anything until your ENTIRE mouth is analyzed. One bad spoke can ruin the whole wheel. I would advise you also to talk to an oral surgeon, or implant specialist, about placing 4 implants in this area and tying the crowns together for maximal strength and long term stability.
Editorial Staff
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