Frequently Asked Questions
How much do dental bridges cost?
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The cost of dental bridges is different for each patient. Factors that may affect the cost of your bridge include your overall oral health, the type of bridge you choose, pre-treatment surgeries (like tooth extraction), and more. The best way to find out how much you’ll pay for a dental bridge is to schedule a consultation with your dentist.
However, dental bridges are usually covered, at least in part, by dental insurance when they’re used to restore missing teeth. Contact your insurance provider to learn more about your coverage.
What are dental bridges made of?
This varies, depending on the type of dental bridge you choose. However, most dental bridges are made from a combination of a metal framework, which supports the teeth and ensures they’re in the proper place, and one or more porcelain crowns and false teeth. Acrylic teeth are sometimes used for dental bridges, but usually, they are only used for temporary bridges, since acrylic is much less durable than porcelain and ceramic materials.
Are dental bridges permanent or removable?
Dental bridges are considered to be a permanent treatment since they can only be removed by a dental professional and they typically last 10-15 years or longer.
In addition, the tooth preparation procedure for your abutment teeth is not reversible. It requires the permanent removal of enamel from one or more of your teeth, so you may want to keep this in mind when deciding whether or not a bridge is right for you.
Can dental bridges be repaired or replaced?
Yes. Dental bridges, just like all dental prostheses, can become damaged over time, or simply worn down from daily use when chewing, biting, smiling, and speaking. Typically, bridges last between 10-20 years, but the expected lifespan of your bridge may be different depending on the type of bridge, how well you care for your teeth, and a few other factors.
How do dental bridges work?
While every type of bridge is different, dental bridges all share similar characteristics, and work in the same way. A bridge is used to attach one or more false teeth to your existing teeth – locking them into place by using dental crowns (fixed and cantilever bridges) or metal “wings” that attach to the rear of your teeth (Maryland bridges).
Because they won’t move or shift, they’re a great alternative to partial dentures. And since they do not require invasive surgery, some patients prefer dental bridges as an alternative to dental implants.
