Table of Contents
TL;DR
- Bridges for teeth replace missing teeth by placing a false tooth between crowns on the nearby teeth.
- There are different types, such as traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported bridges.
- The cost of bridges for teeth usually ranges from $1,500 to $15,000. It depends on the type, material, and the dentist’s experience.
- The procedure involves a consultation, tooth preparation, taking impressions, and placing the final bridge.
- They help restore your smile, improve chewing, and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting.
- With proper care, bridges for teeth can last 5-15 years or even longer.
Understanding Bridges for Teeth
Losing a tooth can do more than change your smile. It can make eating difficult, speaking awkward, and even leave you feeling a little self-conscious. Fortunately, bridges for teeth offer a solution. They fill the gap, letting you chew comfortably, speak clearly, and smile with confidence again. At the same time, they help keep the rest of your teeth healthy.
It’s natural to have questions about dental bridges. You might be wondering how they work, which type is best for you, or what the procedure and cost involve. Understanding these details can make the decision much easier and less stressful. In this guide, we’ll explain everything step by step.
What is a Dental Bridge?
Bridges for teeth are custom-made restorations designed to replace one or more missing teeth. It typically consists of:
- Crowns that are placed on the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, called abutment teeth.
- A false tooth, called a pontic, fills the empty space between them.
Bridges for teeth help fill the gap left by missing teeth, keep your bite balanced, stop nearby teeth from moving out of place, prevent bone loss, and make eating and speaking easier. In other words, they support your overall dental health.
Types of Dental Bridges
When exploring types of bridges for teeth, it’s important to understand that each type serves a different purpose depending on your dental needs, the number of missing teeth, and overall oral condition. Here are the most common types:
- Traditional Dental Bridge
A traditional bridge replaces a missing tooth by anchoring a false tooth (pontic) to crowns on the teeth beside the gap. It’s a dependable option when the neighboring teeth are healthy and strong enough to support the bridge. Bridges can be made from porcelain fused to metal, all-ceramic, or all-metal. With proper care, they typically last 10-15 years.
- Cantilever Dental Bridge
A cantilever dental bridge replaces a missing tooth with a pontic supported by a crown on only one side of the gap. This type of bridge works best for front teeth or areas with lighter biting pressure. It is not suitable for molars, which endure heavy chewing. With proper care, a cantilever bridge usually lasts around 5-10 years.
- Maryland (Resin-Bonded) Bridge
This bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework with flat extensions called “wings” that are bonded to the back surfaces of the adjacent teeth, holding the false tooth in place without needing full crowns on the neighboring teeth.
It works best for replacing front teeth while keeping the surrounding teeth mostly untouched. Maryland bridges are less invasive and generally more affordable than traditional bridges. With proper oral hygiene, they usually last between 5 and 8 years.
- Implant-Supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge uses dental implants instead of natural teeth to hold the bridge in place. This option is ideal for patients who are missing several teeth in a row or do not have strong adjacent teeth. It feels natural, offers high durability, and helps maintain jawbone health. With regular dental care, an implant-supported bridge can last 15 years or more.
Cost of Dental Bridges
The cost of a dental bridge can vary depending on the type, material, and location of your clinic. On average, prices are:
| Types of Dental Bridges | Average Cost (per unit) |
| Traditional Bridge | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Cantilever Bridge | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Maryland Bridge | $1,500-$2,500 |
| Implant-Supported Bridge | $4,000-$16,000 |
Several factors can influence the price:
- Material: The type of material used, such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys.
- Dentist expertise: Fees may vary depending on the dentist’s training and years of experience.
- Location: Costs differ by city and clinic overhead.
- Insurance coverage: Some plans partially cover restorative treatments, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge
Getting bridges for teeth usually involves a few simple steps and can often be completed in two visits, except for implant-supported bridges, which take longer. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Consultation and Examination
Your dentist will assess your teeth, gums, and overall oral health through a physical exam and digital X-rays. The right bridge type and material are selected based on your needs.
Step 2: Preparing the Abutment Teeth
The adjacent teeth are shaped slightly to make room for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place.
Step 3: Taking Impressions
A precise impression or digital scan of your teeth is taken to create a perfectly fitting custom bridge.
Step 4: Temporary Bridge Placement
While your permanent bridge is being fabricated, a temporary one is placed to protect your teeth and maintain function.
Step 5: Fitting and Cementing the Permanent Bridge
Once ready, your permanent bridge is fitted, adjusted for bite comfort, and permanently cemented.
During the process:
- Local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort.
- You might notice slight soreness once the anesthesia wears off, but it’s temporary and easy to manage.
- A short recovery period allows your mouth to adjust to the new bridge.
- Follow-up appointments ensure the bridge fits well and functions comfortably.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
As per our experts at Anoka Dental, getting bridges for teeth offers several long-term benefits, such as:
- Restore your smile: Bring back your natural look and confidence. Brush and floss regularly to keep your bridge looking great.
- Improve chewing and speech: Filling gaps helps you eat and speak comfortably. Use a floss threader to clean under the bridge.
- Maintain facial shape: Supports your jaw and cheeks, preventing a sunken look.
- Keep teeth in place: Filling the gap prevents nearby teeth from moving out of place.
- Protect oral health: Bridges balance your bite, reduce wear on other teeth, and support overall dental health.
Conclusion:
If you are still wondering what a bridge for teeth is, think of it as a simple and effective solution to restore your smile by filling the gap left by missing teeth. Filling this gap does more than improve appearance. It also helps you chew properly, speak clearly, and maintain overall oral health. With proper care, a bridge can last for many years while keeping your mouth strong and healthy.
For anyone looking for the best dentist in Anoka, experts at Anoka Dental can help. Our team creates bridges for teeth that look natural and feel comfortable. Whether you need to replace one tooth or several, we’ll make sure the result fits you perfectly.
Call us today at (763) 421-4002 or visit us in person at 12 Bridge Square, #106, Anoka, MN 55303.
FAQs
How long does a dental bridge typically last?
With good oral care and regular checkups, most dental bridges last between 5-15 years, and implant-supported options can last even longer.
Which type of dental bridge is best?
It depends on your needs. Traditional and implant-supported bridges are the most durable, while Maryland bridges are ideal for minimal intervention.
Can I eat normally with a tooth bridge?
Yes. Once your bridge settles, you can enjoy most foods. Avoid excessively hard or sticky foods that may damage the restoration.
Can dental bridges be replaced if damaged or worn out?
Absolutely. A worn or damaged bridge can be replaced or repaired after an evaluation by your dentist.
