4 crowns as part of one bridge

[Miya]

Hello

I would like to have my four missing teeth replaced with 2 implants and 4 crowns as part of one bridge. Is this something that is possible or will I need more implants?

[Dr Vahid Motahar]

Hi,

Thank you for your question.

Whether is possible to replace the four missing teeth by means of 2 implants or not depends on the location and the situation. In general it is suggested that each implant is suitable to support one and half teeth and not more. Therefore it would be ideal to replace 3 missing teeth with 2 implants and a 3 unit bridge to ensure a long lasting restoration without compromising the long term durability of the restoration. May be placement of 4 teeth on 2 implants is pushing the boat out a little.

Having said this it all depnds on the situation and location of the implants and the volume of the bone present. In some cases if enough bone is present and larger size impalnts in terms of length and width can be placed then it may clinically safe and sound to consider placement of a 4 unit bridge on 2 implants specially if the span of the bridge is not long ( ie the length of the bridge is not too long).

To put it concisely it may be better to place 3 implants to replace the 4 unit bridge or 2 implants plus a 3 unit bridge and addition of another implant supporting just one tooth. In some situation depening to the quality and quantity of the bone and length of the bridge, it may be possible to consider 2 implants supporting a 4 unit bridge. This has to be assessed clinically and we would be happy to consider your case and do an assessment for free.