A replacement for missing teeth
A dental bridge is a replacement for some or many missing teeth in a row. It is basically like a small denture that is permanently fixed into place by attaching it to the adjoining teeth.
What are Dental Bridges?
In a lot of ways a bridge is like a crown. However, whereas a crown will sit upon whatever tooth structure remains, the bridge normally replaces more teeth than can be supported by the underlying root structure. Bridges can easily last ten years or more.
What different types exist?
You might need a dental bridge if you have one or more missing teeth. These are the normal types of bridges available:
Normal Fixed Bridge
This is the traditional mechanism where the bridge is bonded to two crowns that are attached to the adjacent teeth. The crowns can be gold, porcelain fused to metal, or just porcelain.
Resin Bonded Bridges
This process is normally used for front teeth and only when the adjacent teeth are strong and healthy. The bridge is connected to metal bands which are glued with a resin to the natural teeth. This procedure requires less preparation of the natural teeth and is generally less expensive.
Cantilever Bridge
These are bridges which are only attached to the teeth on one side. They can be used when it is replacing one of the front teeth.
What is the procedure like?
The procedure for a bridge is similar to that of a crown. The teeth that are going to anchor the bridge must be prepared for the bridge. This is normally done under mild sedation. An impression is then made and the mould is sent to a laboratory where the bridge can be fabricated.
You should be given a temporary bridge to wear until your next visit. During the next visit, the temporary bridge is removed and the permanent bridge is fitted and checked. If everything is right, it is cemented into place.
What affects the price?
There are a variety of factors that determine the price. It is important that when you are comparing prices, you are comparing like with like. Look for details like:
- The number of teeth that the bridge will be replacing
- The type of bridge you are getting
- Additional work that may need to be performed
Price Comparison
Price lists should always be viewed with caution as many factors can increase or decrease the resulting price. The follow list gives some indicative costs for bridges across the world:
| $1920 |
$795 |
$360 |
$200 |
$895 |
$460 |
$575 |
$180 |
| €1450 |
€600 |
€270 |
€150 |
€675 |
€350 |
€435 |
€135 |
| £1315 |
£545 |
£245 |
£135 |
£610 |
£320 |
£395 |
£120 |
Dental bridge work is a good way of replacing some or many missing teeth in one go. As with any dental procedure, you should always consult your dentist before deciding on any particular treatment.
