Dental bridges are a viable alternative to tooth loss for people who have lost one or more teeth. They work by attaching false teeth to the remaining healthy ones and restoring your smile. But before you commit to getting dental bridges, there are some things that you should know.
This blog post will discuss how many dental bridges cost, what they look like, and whether or not they’re right for you.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a false tooth attached to two healthy teeth on either side of the space where the missing tooth used to be. The false tooth, called a pontic, is often made out of porcelain and metal, and it sits on top of the gums.
The two healthy teeth are known as abutments. These act as the foundation for the bridge and hold it into place. If you don’t have healthy teeth to support the bridge, your dentist may suggest having implants on either side to support the bridge instead.
There are different types of bridges based on the material used, but they all serve to fill in a space where one or more teeth have been lost due to decay, injury, gum disease, or another condition. The benefit of this type of cosmetic dentistry is that you can replace missing teeth without having implants put in.
How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?
A dental bridge is among the most affordable tooth replacement options and typically costs between $500 and $1200 per tooth, depending on your specific situation. Not to mention, it’s most likely to be covered by your insurance.
Installation Process
Once you and your bridgework dentist have decided a dental bridge is the best tooth replacement option for you, he will prepare the abutment teeth (the teeth on either side of the space where the missing tooth will go) by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crowns.
Next, he will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab, where the bridge will be created. The bridge consists of two crowns fused with a pontic (fake tooth) in the middle. Once it is ready, the dentist will cement it into place. In the meantime, you may have to wear a temporary bridge.
How Many Appointments Does a Dental Bridge Procedure Take?
A dental bridge procedure usually takes two appointments to complete. The first appointment is for taking impressions of your teeth so the bridge can be created in a lab. The second appointment is for fitting the bridge and adjusting it to ensure a comfortable fit.
Types of Dental Bridges
The traditional bridge is the most common type of bridge at most dentist Somerville centers. It consists of two crowns fused with a pontic (fake tooth) in the middle. However, this isn’t your only option. There are also:
- Cantilever bridges: These bridges only use one anchor tooth and are primarily used to replace front teeth.
- Maryland bonded bridge: This bridge resembles the traditional bridge in terms of structure. But instead of using crowns as anchors, they use a metal framework or porcelain, thereby eliminating the need to modify adjacent teeth.
- Implant-supported bridge: An implant-supported bridge may be a good option when you don’t have natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth/teeth. This type of bridge uses two dental implants to support the replacement teeth.
Cleaning and Care
Taking care of your dental bridge is essential to ensure its longevity. It’s not different from how you care for your natural teeth. You should brush and floss daily, eat a balanced diet low in sugar, and avoid sticky foods that can get stuck between the replacement teeth.
Other tips to increase the longevity of your dental bridge include:
- Avoid biting down on hard objects
- Avoid using your teeth to open things
- See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
- Floss at the base of the bridge to dislodge food particles
If you follow these tips consistently, your bridge should serve you for a long period without any problems.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
Bridgework teeth can last up to 15 years with proper care and maintenance. However, it’s crucial to get this service from the best dentist at Somerville and Medford
Do Dental Bridges Affect How You Eat or Speak?
A dental bridge should not affect how you eat or speak. In fact, it’s designed to make eating and speaking easier. If you notice any changes in your ability to eat or speak, be sure to see your dentist.
Are Dental Bridges Painful?
Most people do not experience pain with a dental bridge. However, if the bridge is ill-fitting or causes soreness, you may need to have it adjusted by your dentist.
Wrapping Up
A dental bridge is an excellent way to replace missing teeth. However, you should make sure it’s right for you before putting in the time and money that they require. A dental bridge can last up to 15 years but may need adjustment over time. If you have any questions about a dental bridge, be sure to speak with a reliable dentist at the Medford clinic today.
Dental Bridge can be a great option for people having missing teeth, transforming a flawed smile into a confident, beautiful one.
To learn how dental bridge can give you a more attractive smile, call our office at (617) 623-8489 or (781) 395-0300 and request an appointment online today at First Dental.