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Home/Dental Services/Cosmetic Dentistry/Dental Bridges

Dental Bridges

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a restoration used to replace a single tooth or multiple adjacent missing teeth. Traditionally, bridges consist of an artificial tooth and two or more dental crowns, which are fused to the surrounding healthy teeth to fill, or “bridge,” gaps in the mouth. A popular example of both the restorative and cosmetic categories of dentistry, dental bridges can ease damage that missing teeth often cause, including misalignment, tooth decay, issues with speaking and chewing, and more. Not only can bridges restore proper function to the bite, but they can also improve the aesthetic quality of your smile.

Our cosmetic dentist, Justin Roberts, DDS, has placed a number of dental bridges to improve the oral health and function of countless patients. Using advanced imaging technology and durable, beautiful porcelain crowns, we custom-design each dental bridge to fit comfortably in your mouth while looking as natural as possible.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges offer patients who are missing one or more teeth a variety of benefits. One of this treatment’s more prominent advantages over other restorative options is its minimally-invasive approach. Since the bridge is bonded to custom dental crowns that cover natural surrounding teeth in order to secure the artificial tooth, there is no need for surgical intervention or extensive recovery time. Dental bridges also provide a relatively quick solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring oral functionality, filling the gapped space between adjacent teeth, and improving overall comfort when speaking and chewing. Our natural-looking dental bridges and crowns offer patients an aesthetically pleasing way to renew both dental form and function.

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Bridges?

Ideal candidates for dental bridges typically include individuals who:

Dr. Roberts will carefully evaluate each patient’s teeth, gums, and oral structures to determine candidacy for a dental bridge. If this treatment is not the ideal solution, he can recommend an alternative tooth replacement option.

Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants

Dental bridges and dental implants are two effective restorative options that offer their own advantages. For patients missing multiple adjacent teeth, a dental bridge “bridges” the gap left in their smile. This option may cost slightly less than dental implants but is not designed to stimulate jawbone growth. Implants often replace a single missing tooth and may last slightly longer than bridges, as implants typically put less strain on the surrounding teeth. Additionally, this restorative treatment can help preserve jawbone integrity and is able to support dental bridges or dentures.

If you’re unsure whether dental bridges or implants are right for you, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Roberts.

What Does the Dental Bridge Procedure Involve?

After you are determined a good candidate for a dental bridge, the remainder of the process can usually be completed in two office visits. Firstly, Dr. Roberts will determine the best type of bridge to meet your needs. Several types of dental bridges exist, including:

Once Dr. Roberts has helped you choose one of the above options, he will thoroughly clean and prepare the abutment teeth for the procedure. A mold will be taken of the treatment area, and Dr. Roberts will match the shade of your teeth to color swatches for natural-looking crowns. You may be given a temporary bridge while the permanent prosthesis is being crafted. During your next visit, Dr. Roberts will place the newly-created bridge into your mouth to ensure a proper fit before bonding it to the abutment teeth. Note that the procedure is not considered especially invasive or uncomfortable.

How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?

High-quality dental bridges made of durable materials can last up to 15 years. In order to reap the full benefits of your dental bridges, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing at least twice a day, flossing, and attending your cleanings and oral exams.

Are There Alternatives to Dental Bridges?

Yes, there are other advanced restorative dental options available to replace a missing tooth or teeth; however, their candidacy requirements and usability vary from patient to patient. One alternative is a dental implant, which is surgically inserted and anchored to the jawbone. Dental implants are usually more expensive and require a certain amount of jawbone density to be eligible. With that in mind, they can provide a superior foundation within the gums and are designed to last a lifetime. For patients in need of replacing most or all of their teeth, there are various denture options suitable for different needs, including implant-supported dentures or traditional full and partial dentures. During a personal consultation, Dr. Roberts can discuss a full array of all restorative dental options available for your unique needs so you can make a well-informed decision.

How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost?

A three-unit bridge in our office costs $3600; otherwise, the price is contingent upon a number of factors, such as the type of bridge being applied, the number of teeth being replaced, and more. That said, our team at Roberts Dental Group always aims to make the payment process as stress-free as possible. We will discuss the plan with you and determine the price of your custom restoration during your consultation.

In the meantime, we invite you to explore our financial options. In addition to accepting several forms of payment, we proudly work with CareCredit®, a third-party financing option with low- to no-interest plans to help eligible patients pay for treatment in installments.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Bridges?

Depending on the circumstances of a missing tooth and applicable benefits, some of the costs of a dental bridge may be covered by dental insurance. The team at Roberts Dental Group can review your insurance policy, along with all of our available payment options, to help determine if insurance may cover any part of the expense for your dental bridge.

Additional Dental Bridges FAQs

Can I whiten my teeth after getting a dental bridge?

The materials used for dental bridges often create a brighter smile, but do not typically respond to whitening treatments the same way natural teeth do. Many patients choose to whiten their teeth prior to their dental bridge procedure as the replacement teeth are color-matched to blend in with the rest of their smile.

How do I care for my dental bridge?

Oral health can be a strong determining factor in the longevity of dental bridges. To properly care for the restoration, a good oral hygiene routine should be maintained and twice-a-year cleanings should be regularly attended. Additionally, be mindful of foods that can damage the bridge, including hard and pitted foods, and if you’re prone to teeth grinding, consider using a night guard.

Does the dental bridge procedure hurt?

The dental bridge treatment is often performed under local anesthesia, so patients typically do not feel any pain during the procedure. For patients anxious about the procedure, we offer sedation dentistry options to help create a more comfortable experience. There may be mild swelling and tenderness following the dental bridge procedure, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Please also feel free to schedule your consultation with Dr. Roberts today.