Missing teeth is one of the common dental problems that everyone mostly has. If you are one of those, we are sure that you are here to resolve that missing tooth issue. Of course, who would like to have a missing tooth? Not to mention that having one or more missing teeth has significant effects on both appearance and oral functionality. A missing tooth can make some changes in teeth shifting and food biting. It can also give you severe tooth decay, speech difficulty, and some periodontal diseases.
What are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are of the common dental solutions for missing teeth. The dental bridge is called “bridge”, because it acts as a bridge, filling in the gap when teeth are lost. Typically, a bridge is composed of one or more artificial teeth, also known as pontics. Two dental crowns or abutments held in place these two artificial teeth. The artificial teeth used in it are commonly made from porcelain, but sometimes it’s made from silver amalgam or gold.
What are the Different Types of Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges have four main types that you can choose from if you are planning to have one.
Traditional dental bridge
A traditional bridge is considered the most popular type of dental bridge. Usually, it is used when you have natural teeth on both sides of the gap created by your missing tooth. This dental bridge is consists of an artificial tooth held in place using dental crowns. These dental crowns are cemented onto all abutment teeth.
Maryland dental bridge
Maryland dental bridge is quite similar to the traditional one as it requires two natural abutment teeth. Those abutment teeth must be on each side of the missing tooth gap. Additionally, this dental bridge is only applicable if you have a natural tooth on each side of your gap. Whereas, unlike a traditional bridge, the Maryland bridge uses the support of either porcelain or metal structure. These frameworks are bonded at the back of each abutment tooth.
Cantilever dental bridge
A cantilever dental bridge is also similar to a traditional bridge. The difference is, this bridge is held in place using a dental crown, cemented to only a single abutment tooth. Also, you only need one natural tooth next to the tooth gap when it comes to the cantilever bridge application.
Implant-supported dental bridge
From the name itself, an implant-supported bridge is using some dental implants instead of dental crowns or frameworks. Usually, each implant is placed for every missing tooth to hold firmly onto the bridge through surgery. This dental bridge is considered the strongest and most stable system, so it commonly requires two surgeries. The first surgery is done to embed the implants in the jawbone, and a second surgery to place the bridge. For the procedure to completely finish, you need to take a number of months.
How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?
If you are planning to get a dental bridge, the first thing that you want to know is its cost, right? So how much do dental bridges cost? Is it covered by your health insurance?
Well, the answers to your questions vary, depending on some factors. But typically, the average cost of a dental bridge is ranging from $500 to $1,200 per procedure. This already includes the abutments and pontics.
- Traditional or cantilever bridges – These two are typically ranging from $1,500 – $5,000. It includes one crown and one pontic for each abutment tooth.
- Maryland bridges – for this dental bridge, its usual cost is around $1,500 – $2,500. This includes one pontic with the framework, attached to the abutment teeth.
- Implant-supported – for this type of bridge, its cost may fall around $4,000 – $15,000. This includes two dental implants bridging three or four teeth.
Several Factors Affecting the Cost of Dental bridges
When it comes to dental bridges cost, it still differs, depending on some factors which include the following:
- Additional procedures like fillings or root canal treatments to one of your adjoining teeth. Sometimes, your dentist will require you to have this, if it is necessary, to make the dental bridges application successful.
- The artistic technique of your dentist and lab technicians may also affect the cost.
- The cost of your dental bridges may lessen if it is covered by your company’s dental insurance. Also, you can get some dental insurance to some community local.
- The material type of your dental bridges also affects the cost, it can lessen or multiply the cost.
- Sometimes, some other preparations for your teeth are needed in the procedure.
Final Thoughts
Stop worrying now about missing tooth problems because dental bridges are made to resolve your missing teeth issue. There are several types of fixed dental bridges that you can choose from. Some of the common dental bridges include traditional, maryland, cantilever and implant-supported bridges.
If you want to replace your missing tooth with dental bridges, you can visit Thornhill Dental. Our Thornhill dentists are experts in this kind of dental procedure. You can also contact us to book an appointment today.
Related article: What is the Difference: Dental Bridges vs Dental Implants