I have a bridge over teeth #18, 19, 20. I've been told that tooth #18 (rear anchor tooth) is decaying and has to be removed. The gum surrounding the tooth is a bit sensitive and I experience mild discomfort at times.

My questions are as follows:

Can #18 (rear of the mouth, left side) be extracted without removing the entire bridge?

Can the bridge be cut while still in the mouth?

Can the bridge be cut in a way to preserve the crown over #20 (front anchor tooth) or would I need a new crown here? Does #19 have to be cut away leaving me with a 2 tooth gap?

Implants are expensive and not covered at all by my insurance. Can I get along with a 2 tooth gap in the back of my mouth?

Confused

Thanks