Can two teeth be replaced with one Maryland bridge?

I have a Maryland bridge with a fake tooth on the top of my mouth that has lasted a long time. Now my brother needs to replace two teeth right next to each other in his mouth, as well. Can he get a Maryland bridge with two fake teeth instead of just one?

Thanks,
Ester from Charlotte, NC

Ester,

If your brother’s missing teeth are on the bottom in the front where the teeth are smaller, then a Maryland bridge may work. Having more than two teeth attached to a Maryland bridge isn’t recommended.

A Maryland bridge typically has a porcelain tooth baked onto a metal framework. The metal wings at the end of the framework are then bonded to the backside of the teeth on either side of the missing tooth.

With two teeth attached to the bridge, there are risk factors to consider:

The force of two teeth on the metal framework is double what a typical Maryland bridge is designed for. It may break more easily.

Because the span is longer, when force is applied, like chewing, the bridge will be more able to bend. This puts pressure and stress on the teeth the bridge is bonded to and can damage them.

Have your brother talk to a cosmetic dentist who can help him know if a Maryland bridge is right for him or if there are better options in his case.

You may be interested in reading more about dental implants.

This post is sponsored by Enfield dentist Dr. William Cummiskey at Generations Dental Care.