Dental Bridges

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What is a dental bridge?

If you have missing teeth, your dentist can restore your smile using dental bridges. A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that fills the gap left by a missing tooth. It features a false tooth—known as a pontic—anchored by the abutment teeth on either side of the gap. While dental bridges can be made from various materials, porcelain dental bridges are popular for their natural appearance that seamlessly blends with your existing teeth. Other materials like gold are also an option, providing durability and style.

Traditional dental bridge

Traditional dental bridges are the most common type used in restorative dentistry. This option involves placing crowns on the abutment teeth (the natural teeth adjacent to the gap) and securing a false tooth (known as a pontic) in between. Traditional dental bridges are highly effective in restoring the natural appearance and function of your smile, making them a popular choice for many patients.

Cantilever dental bridge

antilever bridges are ideal when there is only one adjacent tooth available to support the replacement tooth. Often used in areas with lower biting forces, cantilever bridges attach on just one side. This option is less common but can be highly effective in specific dental situations where traditional bridges may not be feasible.

Maryland dental bridge

Maryland bridges—also known as resin-bonded bridges—offer a conservative alternative to traditional bridges. These bridges are typically used to replace front teeth, where aesthetics are a priority. With a metal or porcelain framework featuring “wings” that are bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, Maryland bridges require minimal alteration of natural teeth, providing a more natural look with less invasive preparation.

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Implant-supported dental bridge

Implant-supported dental bridges use dental implants rather than traditional crowns or metal frameworks. These bridges offer a strong, stable solution for replacing missing teeth.

How Implant-Supported Dental Bridges Work

Implant Placement:
Typically, one dental implant is surgically placed for every missing tooth. These implants serve as anchors to hold the dental bridge in position.
If placing one implant per missing tooth isn’t feasible, the bridge may include a pontic (false tooth) suspended between two implant-supported crowns.
Surgical Procedures:
This advanced restoration often requires two surgeries:
1. Implant Embedding: The implants are surgically embedded into the jawbone.
2. Bridge Placement: After a healing period, the dental bridge is attached.
  Note: The complete process may take several months to finish as the implants need time to integrate with the jawbone.

Factors Affecting Dental Bridge Cost

Key Variables

Several factors can influence the overall cost of a dental bridge, including:

Number of Missing Teeth: The more teeth that need replacement, the higher the cost.
Materials Used: Options include composite resin, zirconia, or metal alloy covered in resin.
Complexity of the Procedure: Difficult placements may require additional time and expertise.
Additional Dental Treatments: Treatments for conditions like gum disease can increase overall expenses.
Geographic Location: Costs vary depending on regional pricing and local dental market conditions.

Cost Estimates by Bridge Type

Traditional or Cantilever Bridges:
Typically cost between $2,000 – $5,000 for one pontic plus a crown on each abutment tooth.
Maryland Bridges (Resin-Bonded Bridges):
Generally cost between $1,500 – $2,500 for one poetic with wings attached to the adjacent teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridges:
An implant-supported bridge can range from $5,000 – $15,000 for a bridge with two dental implants spanning three or four teeth.