Where several teeth are missing — whether they're next to each other or spread around the mouth — multiple implants can be used to support individual crowns or an implant-retained bridge.

One of the advantages of implants over a conventional bridge is that you often need fewer implants than the number of teeth being replaced. Two or three well-placed implants, for example, can support a bridge of four or five teeth, spreading the load evenly and avoiding pressure on any remaining natural teeth.

What's involved

• 3D planning to work out the optimum number and position of implants for your case
• Placement of the implants, sometimes alongside bone grafting or sinus lifting if needed
• A healing period before the final bridge or crowns are fitted
• A fitted, fixed result designed to function like your natural teeth

Watch: multiple tooth implants