How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?
A dental bridge, also known as fixed partial dentures, is a restoration performed by a dentist. During this process, a dentist will replace a missing tooth and permanently adjoin it with an implant. Common types of bridges include porcelain and gold. The cost of a bridge is going to depend on the complexity of the situation, the location of the tooth, type of bridge, the dentist, and more.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
- On average, the cost of dental bridge can be anywhere from $400 to $2,000 per tooth without insurance. This price is all going to depend on the location, the cost of the lab, type of materials used, as well as the condition of the teeth. Keep in mind that the average bridge is going to require more than one tooth.
- For those that have dental insurance, most providers will cover up to around half of the procedure itself. It is best to talk with your insurance provider to get a better idea on what you are going to owe.
- A common bridge known as the Maryland type can range anywhere from $200 to $600 per tooth. An attaching wing for each false tooth can vary anywhere from $500 to $1,350. For example, one false tooth with an 2 attached wings can run $1,400 to $3,000, while two false teeth with one attached wing can cost $1,400 to $3,200.
- A three-unit bridge, also known as a pontic, can cost anywhere can cost anywhere from $1,800 to $2,900.
- According to the website AboutCosmeticDentistry.com, the average cost of a dental bridge could cost anywhere from $250 to as much as $550 for each attaching wing. For a false tooth or pontic, the price can be as high as $1,200.
- YourDentristryGuide.com claims that you should budget at least $700 to $1,500 per tooth. It really will be based on a number of factors, such as the ones listed below.
Factors that influence the price:
- Additional Procedures: Does anything need to be done aside from the dental bridge such as a filling or root canal?
- Lab Tech: Depending on the credibility of the lab tech, each lab will have their own pricing when creating the bridge.
- Geographical Location: With anything, the geographical location can play a large factor.
- Material: As noted below, the material can play a role with the overall pricing.
- Preparation: Each case can vary in pricing. If your case is complex, plan on spending more money.
What are the extra costs?
- Choosing a material such as gold can greatly add to the price since the cost of the material will be more than a material such as porcelain.
- A second visit will be required to install the new mold as well as make adjustments. This exam will more than likely be an additional exam fee.
- X-rays may be necessary before any procedures begin.
What is going to be included?
- Generally, with your first visit, the dentist will determine the health of your gums and other teeth. If the dentist deems that your teeth are deemed candidates, they can make an impression to create an impression of your mouth. This bridge will be created by a technician so that it can fit the teeth perfectly. After the mold has been created, you will be asked to come back to the office down the line. On average, plan on going to the dentist at least three times.
- During the procedure, the dentist will apply an anesthetic to numb the gum area where the bridge will be placed. On the missing tooth space side, the dentist will remove the area of each tooth so that the newer crown can be installed. In the open space, the dentist will create a mold so that it can be sent off to the lab to replicate a tooth. While waiting for the lab to create the mold, a temporary bridge may be put in place. This process should take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours.
- There are three common types of bridges that can be performed. These types can include a traditional fixed bridge, a resin bonded bridge and cantilever bridge.
Types of dental bridges:
- Cantilever: Used with teeth that have less stress, a cantilever bridge may be used. These bridges are ideal for your front teeth.
- Traditional: A traditional fixed dental bridge is known as a pontic. This is fused between two crowns to fill an area of a missing tooth. These crowns will hold it into place by attaching to your teeth. More than likely, this procedure is going to be used to help replace missing teeth.
- Resin Bonded: Less expensive out of all bridges, this is used when your teeth are healthy. Fused to metal bands, they are bonded to the teeth with a resin. They tend to be hidden from view.
- Maryland Bonded: Created from plastic teeth and are supported by a metal framework. The wings on each side of the bridge will be bonded to your existing teeth.
Tips to know:
- There are advantages and disadvantages to have a dental bridge. For starters, the advantages can include a natural appearance, which can make your teeth look great for up to 10 years. On the downside, your teeth can become sensitive to the extreme temperatures after treatment. Bacteria can get on the bridge, causing them to potentially become infected.
- Bridges will come in two different colors. These colors can include a brown, yellowish or shade of gray. All teeth are going to be different depending on your personality. Be sure to look at the color charts before choosing a bridge.
How can I save money?
- Consider checking with a local dental college. A procedure can be done here by a student at a fraction of a cost. All procedures will be done by a student who is closely supervised by a professional.
- Compare prices with local dentists in your area. The ADA has a search tool to find local dentist in your area.
- Again, dental insurance can often pay for this procedure. If you don’t have any sort of dental insurance, consider looking at services such as eHealthInsurance.com to find a policy that works for you. Even with a dental insurance policy, plan on having it cover half the procedure’s cost.
How much did you spend?