
Fill Gaps Caused by 1 to 3 Missing Teeth
When you lose a tooth or two, filling the gap is crucial for both the look and health of your smile. A false tooth is placed in the gap and supported by dental implants, surrounding teeth, or a combination of both. This solution, often called a ‘fixed partial denture,’ is securely bonded or cemented and doesn’t need to be removed for cleaning or while sleeping. Closing gaps left by missing teeth is not only important for appearance but also to maintain proper oral function. Without the support of a missing tooth, adjacent teeth may shift, making it harder to speak or chew.
Long-Lasting Benefits of Dental Bridges
Losing a tooth or several can make us feel self-conscious and uncomfortable. A dental bridge not only restores the appearance of your smile but also provides long-term advantages for the health of your remaining teeth and jawbone. Here’s a summary of the key benefits:
Comfort
The immediate benefits of dental bridges are noticeable, restoring your ability to smile and eat with ease. Gaps from missing teeth can make speaking or chewing difficult and uncomfortable. A dental bridge is a lasting solution that can provide relief for over ten years with proper care.
Tooth Health
Teeth work together to support each other and maintain the structure of your face. When teeth are missing, it can affect your bite and lead to shifting teeth. A dental bridge helps prevent this by keeping your teeth in place, reducing the risk of tooth decay, periodontal disease, jaw pain, and TMJ disorders caused by misaligned teeth.
Bone Health
Stable, healthy teeth help support your jawbone. When teeth are lost, the bone structure can weaken over time. By stabilising your dental health with a dental bridge, you help slow the process of bone loss, preserving the integrity of the bone and surrounding tissues.
The Cost of a Dental Bridge in Burlington
The price of a dental bridge can vary significantly depending on the individual. With insurance coverage, the typical cost of a dental bridge is around $800 to $1200 or more. Without insurance, you can expect to pay between $2000 and $3000 or higher.
- The type of bridge and materials used.
- The number of missing teeth that need replacement.
- The complexity and location of the procedure.
- The condition of the teeth adjacent to the gap.
- The supplies and equipment needed for your specific treatment.
What goes into determining the cost of a dental bridge? Several factors influence the cost of a dental bridge, including:
Keep in mind that no dental office can provide an exact price over the phone. Your needs are unique, and it’s essential to have a consultation and examination to determine the best treatment and accurate pricing. If you have dental insurance, we can provide you with a quote for submission to your insurer, so you’ll know your out-of-pocket costs before moving forward.
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 various types of dental bridges, including permanent and semi-permanent options. Bridges are sometimes called fixed partial dentures because they are bonded to existing teeth or implants. The main difference between a bridge, which stays in place, and a denture, which can be removed, is that bridges only consist of the teeth, while dentures include pink gum-like material as well.
When there are no neighbouring teeth on both sides of a gap, a cantilever bridge may be used. However, these bridges are becoming less common, especially for use in the back of the mouth, as they can apply excessive pressure on adjacent teeth, potentially causing damage. For missing teeth at the back of your mouth, other treatment options are typically recommended.
Typically, the procedure involves two visits, with each appointment lasting under an hour.
Dental bridges can be made from various materials, including gold alloys, non-precious alloys, and porcelain, or a combination of these. In our practice, we primarily use porcelain for dental bridges.
Although dental bridges and crowns are sometimes confused, they serve different functions. A crown is a prosthetic cap placed over a damaged tooth to strengthen it and protect it from decay. In contrast, a dental bridge is used to close the gap left by one or more missing teeth.
A single crown cannot replace a missing tooth on its own. It is designed to cover an existing or prepared tooth, or it can be supported by a post or implant. To fill the gap left by a missing tooth, other treatments, such as a bridge or implant, are needed in addition to the crown.
Zirconia is indeed a material that can be used for dental bridges. If you’d like more information, we can explain the available materials and discuss which option would best meet your individual requirements.