How does a dental bridge work?
A dental bridge is another good option for tooth replacement. It is a procedure in which the existing tooth serves as the root for the new applied tooth. A bridge application is a restorative procedure that fills the gap remaining by one or more missing teeth. We can install a bridge throughout several dental visits. However, to determine whether you are eligible for a bridge, you should always have a dental checkup to assess your teeth.
If you are indeed a candidate for this treatment, your dentist, Dr. Rangel, will then prepare teeth on either side of the gap during your first visit. We will use these teeth later to anchor the bridge. During this visit, we will also make an exact impression of your teeth and the surrounding area; then, we will send the print to a laboratory.
While you wait for the permanent bridge, your dentist, Dr. Rangel, will provide you with a temporary bridge to protect your exposed teeth. And during one of your follow-up visits, the bridge is installed, adjusted, and cemented.
Are dental bridges permanent? How long does a dental bridge last?
The bridge's material can be metal, ceramic, glass-ceramics, or a combination. Also, since the foundation of the dental crown is cemented on the natural teeth (or in other cases, on implants) dental bridges stay very firm; our goal by placing them the most accurately possible, is to make them last 10 years or more.
How to clean a dental bridge?
The perks of dental bridges are that they look, feel, and function like natural teeth. In addition, you don't have to remove them to clean them; they are less expensive than implants. The possible disadvantages are:
1. They are more likely to be more costly than removable bridges.
2. They can affect the teeth next to the bridge.
3. They may need extra effort to clean under the dental crown.
We recommend the same brushing practices for your natural teeth. Cleaning and maintaining your bridge is essential; so floss around the adjacent teeth and beneath the absent tooth.
Can a dental bridge be removed and recemented?
We can do a dental re-cementation procedure if any dental crown or bridge (previously installed) detaches or falls off for whatever reason. If we are placing the bridge in-office, we will set everything appropriately to avoid this from happening in the first place.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
A dental bridge ranges between $1,500 and $6,000, depending on the type of bridge chosen. A regular teeth bridge ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 for a pontic and a crown for each adjacent teeth. The cost of a single pontic range between $1,200 and $2,400.
How much does a dental bridge cost with insurance?
The type of treatment chosen determines the cost of a dental bridge with health coverage. The type of dental bridge and the materials used determine most of the price. For example, an entirely porcelain-made bridge will be more costly than metal or porcelain-fused bridge. Some insurance providers may cover a percentage of the cost. Still, you may be responsible for the remaining amount of the treatment.
How much does a dental bridge cost without insurance?
Dental insurance does cover tooth bridges. The cost of an all-porcelain bridge is higher than metal or porcelain-fused bridge. Extra expenses include costs of diagnostic tests or exams (always required first). A digital X-ray costs between $50 and $200. Consider anesthesia and post-operative care as well.
Does Medicaid cover dental bridges?
We encourage you to look into Medicaid's coverage in your state, as well as the overall medical and dental care benefits.