A dental bridge is a method that aims to restore the smile and chewing function by closing missing tooth gaps. Although it is generally preferred when two or three teeth are missing side by side, in some cases, four or more gaps can be filled with a dental bridge. However, as the number of gaps increases, it can become more difficult to get support from existing teeth, which can affect the long-term durability of the bridge. Especially in cases where five or six teeth are missing, it is necessary to check whether there are enough healthy teeth to provide stability to the bridge.
Many dentists find it safer to bridge up to three or four gaps. This is mainly because the structural strength of the teeth supporting the bridge is reduced and the tooth roots are not as strong as the roots of artificial implants. Since dental bridges cannot attach directly to the jawbone, the bite force on a long bridge can overload the gums and the teeth supporting the body. In the long run, this can lead to loosening of the teeth and even fractures. In addition, as the bridge gets longer, oral hygiene becomes more difficult; it may be necessary to use an interdental brush or special dental floss, and the amount of bacteria and plaque accumulated in the lower areas of the bridge may increase.
It is recommended that people considering a dental bridge should have the health of their jawbone and gums evaluated. In some patients, when the number of missing teeth is high, alternative methods such as implant-supported bridges or removable dentures may be considered. On the other hand, if the missing tooth space is limited to a few and appropriate abutment teeth are available, a multi-unit bridge can be effective in restoring chewing function and providing an aesthetically satisfying result. The important thing here is to determine the best treatment plan according to the person’s dental health, hygiene habits and the dentist’s assessment after a detailed examination.
