My dentist recommends a six-tooth bridge that includes two natural teeth and three implants. That sounds drastic to me, though. Would you recommend getting a removable partial plate instead? Or should I get two bridges? Thanks for your opinion. Dylan from KS

Dylan,

While we can’t give a personalized assessment without examining you, we can help explain the proposed plan. Joining two natural teeth with three implants under one fixed bridge raises several vital questions worth considering.

How Do Teeth and Implants Differ?

Teeth naturally have slight mobility because periodontal ligaments support them. Implants don’t move at all because they anchor directly into the bone. When you connect these two systems with a rigid bridge, you create a biomechanical mismatch. Some studies indicate that it can be effective with careful planning, while others caution about potential long-term risks.

Connecting all the front teeth into a single unit creates another challenge: if one component fails, the entire bridge may need to be replaced.

How to Maintain a Dental Bridge

Large, connected bridges can be challenging to clean, especially in the front. Basic flossing won’t work, and daily cleaning becomes more involved. Before committing, consider whether this level of maintenance feels realistic:

• Using floss threaders or water flossers to clean under the bridge
• Taking extra time to prevent gum inflammation or plaque buildup

Consistent cleaning is crucial for protecting both teeth and implants.

What Are Your Options?

I’m not sure why your dentist didn’t suggest a single implant to replace the missing tooth. A stand-alone implant is often the least complicated and most predictable solution. A removable partial—such as a flipper—offers another acceptable, lower-cost option. Both methods eliminate the risks associated with attaching natural teeth to implants and simplify the cleaning process.

Plano, Texas, female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy sponsors this post.