Fill Gaps Caused by 1 to 3 Missing Teeth
A dental bridge restores the health and appearance of your smile by filling the spaces left by missing teeth with a false tooth. The bridge is supported by dental implants, your natural teeth, or a combination of both. Often referred to as a “fixed partial denture,” a dental bridge is bonded or cemented in place, meaning it stays securely in your mouth without needing to be removed for cleaning or while you sleep.
Filling the gaps caused by missing teeth is crucial for more than just aesthetics. Gaps can make it harder to speak or chew properly, and without the support of a tooth, neighboring teeth may shift into the empty space, leading to alignment issues and further complications in your oral health.
Long-Lasting Benefits of Dental Bridges
Missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious and uncomfortable. Fortunately, a dental bridge not only restores your smile but also provides lasting benefits for your overall oral health. Here’s why getting a dental bridge is a smart decision:
Comfort
One of the biggest advantages of a dental bridge is how it restores both the look and feel of your smile. It allows you to eat and speak with confidence, making everyday activities easier. Gaps from missing teeth can cause discomfort and even make it painful to chew or talk, but with a dental bridge, you can get back to enjoying life without worrying about your teeth. Plus, a dental bridge can last over ten years with proper care, so it’s a long-term solution to discomfort.
Tooth Health
Your teeth work together to support one another, and when a tooth is missing, it can cause other teeth to shift. This misalignment can lead to bite issues and increase the risk of tooth decay or gum disease. A dental bridge fills the gap, preventing surrounding teeth from shifting and reducing the risk of further oral problems like jaw pain or TMJ disorder.
Bone Health
Missing teeth can also impact the health of your jawbone. When teeth are lost, the bone structure in that area can deteriorate. A dental bridge helps maintain the stability of your teeth, which can slow the rate of bone loss. This not only protects your bone health but also preserves your facial structure and appearance.
The Cost of a Dental Bridge in Tacoma
The cost of a dental bridge can vary significantly depending on a variety of factors. With typical insurance coverage, the average cost for a dental bridge ranges from $800 to $1,200 or more. Without insurance, you can expect the price to fall between $2,000 and $3,000, or higher.
- The type of bridge and the materials used
- The number of missing teeth
- The location and complexity of the procedure
- The condition of the teeth adjacent to the gap
- The supplies and equipment required for your specific treatment
Several factors influence the final cost of your dental bridge:
Remember, no dental office can provide an accurate cost estimate over the phone. Every patient’s needs are unique, and it’s essential to schedule an in-person consultation and exam. After that, we can give you a precise quote and go over all your treatment options. If you have dental insurance, we can help you with a quote to submit to your insurer, so you can determine your out-of-pocket costs before making a decision.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are several types of dental bridges, including permanent and semi-permanent options. A bridge, also known as a fixed partial denture, is bonded to existing teeth or implants and remains in place permanently or semi-permanently. The main difference between a bridge and a denture is that bridges are fixed, while dentures are removable and often have a pink base that resembles gums. A bridge is a set of teeth that fills in gaps, whereas a denture covers a larger area, replacing several teeth.
Cantilever bridges are used when there are no adjacent teeth on both sides of the gap. They are less common today and are not recommended for the back of the mouth, where they may put too much stress on the remaining teeth and cause damage. For missing teeth in the back of the mouth, other options are typically more suitable.
The dental bridge process usually takes two appointments. Each visit typically lasts less than an hour.
Dental bridges can be made from various materials, including gold alloys, non-precious alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. At our practice, we primarily use porcelain for dental bridges because it offers both strength and a natural appearance.
While both dental bridges and crowns are used in restorative dentistry, they serve different purposes. A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a damaged tooth to strengthen it and prevent further decay. A dental bridge, on the other hand, is used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Crowns are part of a bridge but are not interchangeable with one.
A single crown cannot replace a missing tooth on its own. Crowns are designed to cover existing teeth, so they need to be supported by a natural tooth, a partially prepared tooth with a post, or a dental implant to stay in place.
Yes, dental bridges can be made from zirconia, a strong and durable material. If you’re interested in learning more about the materials available for bridges, feel free to ask us during your consultation, and we’ll happily provide more information to help you make the best decision for your treatment.
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