Dental bridges can improve the look of a smile and prevent the sunk-in appearance that often occurs when teeth are missing. They can also enhance speech and distribute chewing and biting forces evenly. Dental bridges can be more costly if you require additional treatments to prepare the area, such as root canal therapy or periodontal disease treatment. Many dental insurance policies cover at least a portion of the dental bridge costs.

Your dentist or dental practitioner will numb your mouth before performing this procedure. They’ll prepare two healthy teeth on either side of the gap, take a mold and then glue the bridge in place using dental cement.

Cost

Dental bridges are one of the most effective treatments for missing teeth. They provide support for adjacent teeth and help you eat, speak and chew normally. They also prevent the adjacent teeth from shifting and causing problems with your bite and aesthetics.

However, the cost of a dental bridge can vary depending on the type you need and your geographical location. Dental practices in urban centers, for example, have higher operational costs and may charge more than those in rural areas.

Traditional dental bridges use natural teeth on either side to hold a fake tooth or teeth. The cost for this type of bridge varies, but can range from $500 to a few thousand dollars per artificial tooth.

Comfort

A dental bridge is a great solution for missing teeth. It fills the gap and prevents a “sunken in” facial appearance, restores chewing ability, and improves speech. It also helps patients feel more confident in their smile and social interactions.

Unlike dental implants, which require a bone graft, traditional bridges use the natural teeth on both sides of the gap as anchors for the artificial ones. These teeth, called abutment teeth, receive dental crowns to support the pontic (“fake”) tooth between them.

Proper care and maintenance are key to ensuring comfort and longevity for your dental bridge. Avoid eating sticky or hard foods that can dislodge or damage the bridge. Also, brush and floss daily to remove any plaque build-up missed by your toothbrush. Finally, regular visits to the dentist help identify issues early and address them promptly. The dentist can adjust your bridge as necessary to ensure a comfortable fit and optimal function. During these visits, your dentist can also provide advice and guidance on the best tooth replacement options for you.

Maintenance

Dental bridges are long-lasting restorations but require regular maintenance to preserve their aesthetic and functional integrity. The best way to protect your investment is to practice excellent oral hygiene and schedule regular professional visits and cleanings.

Implement daily care routines that include brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste and flossing using a water flosser to eliminate trapped food particles. It is also crucial to avoid hard or sticky foods that might damage the bridge or dislodge it from your natural teeth. Adopting a tooth-friendly diet that includes calcium-rich foods like dairy products and leafy greens helps build healthy enamel which safeguards the anchoring teeth that support the bridge.

Keep an eye out for changes in the fit or appearance of your bridge, a persistent bad smell around the area, and pain or sensitivity that indicate issues requiring professional intervention. Addressing these concerns as early as possible is critical for extending the lifespan of your dental bridge.

Repairs

Dental bridges require special care and maintenance to ensure that they last as long as possible. The best way to keep your dental bridge healthy is to practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist for regular checkups. If you follow these guidelines, your dental bridge will remain in great condition and function for years to come.

During your initial consultation, your dentist will evaluate your mouth to determine if a bridge is the right treatment for you. They will take impressions and may perform digital X-rays or 3D imaging to assess the health of your surrounding teeth and jaw structure.

During the bridge fabrication process, your dentist will create a plaster model of your teeth and bite pattern. They will also hand-craft the bridge using a durable material that is suitable for your dental needs. Once the bridge is ready, your dentist will test its fit and bite before securing it in place with dental cement.