Dental Bridges
Top Dental Bridge Dentistry in Birmingham
A dental bridge is a dental prosthesis that is used to replace a missing tooth. This is a popular method to replace teeth, in that the bridge is fixed and cemented in one’s mouth versus a partial denture that can come in and out. A bridge can replace one or more teeth that have been missing for a short period of time, or a long period of time.
Each tooth on either side of the missing tooth is prepped just like it is for a crown, and after an impression is taken of this area, a bridge is made and cemented that replaces the missing tooth. One major advantage to a bridge is the missing tooth can be replaced fairly quickly, without the waiting of a Dental Implant. A temporary bridge is placed that day, and within 2 weeks to permanent bridge is cemented.
Types of Dental Bridges
Just like with crowns, bridges can be made in different ways. The most popular is porcelain fused to metal, where the bridge has a metal substructure for stability. In this type of bridge, the porcelain in baked onto the metal, and when done correctly can have fantastic results and can last a very long time.
Now with the dental technology of all ceramic restorations, bridges can also be made out of an all-ceramic substance, avoiding the use of metal. In this type of bridge, the substructure of the bridge is made out of a tooth colored ceramic and porcelain is added to this the same way as the bridge mentioned above. With the ability to have the bridge the same color as teeth, the resulting bridge is more natural looking. Another added advantage is that the strength or resistance to breakage in the new all-ceramic bridges is very high.
Dental Bridge Cost
Fortunately, most dental insurances do cover dental bridges. Depending on your insurance, it may cover half or more of the procedure. Without any insurance at all, one unit of the bridge costs around $800. So, if you needed to replace one tooth, and required a three-unit bridge, then the total cost would be around $800 x 3, or close to $2,400. If you are missing a tooth, or have a tooth that needs attention and want to know your options please call or come in to our Dental Practice for an evaluation. Between a bridge, dental implant or partial denture, we can decide what would best for you!
Schedule Your Appointment Today
We're accepting new patients from Vestavia Hills, Cahaba Heights, and the surrounding area. We work with most major dental insurance plans, and our front desk verifies your benefits before your visit so you know what's covered. For treatments that aren't fully covered or for patients without dental insurance, we offer transparent estimates upfront. No surprises.
Call or schedule online to book your first visit. New-patient appointments include a comprehensive exam, the X-rays we need to see what's going on, a cleaning where appropriate, and time to talk through anything you'd like to plan for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthesis that replaces one or more missing teeth. Unlike a partial denture that comes in and out, a bridge is cemented permanently in your mouth, using the teeth on either side of the gap as anchors. It restores your bite and keeps teeth from shifting.
How is a bridge placed?
The teeth on either side of the gap are prepared much like they would be for a crown. Dr. Curry takes an impression, places a temporary bridge that same day, and cements the permanent bridge about two weeks later once it’s crafted to match your bite and surrounding teeth.
What types of bridges are available?
The most popular is porcelain-fused-to-metal, which uses a metal substructure for strength and can last many years. All-ceramic bridges are also available; they contain no metal, match your natural tooth color for a more lifelike look, and are very strong against breakage. Dr. Curry recommends the best type for your case.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
Most dental insurance covers bridges, often half or more of the cost. Without insurance, a single unit runs around $800, so a three-unit bridge to replace one tooth costs about $2,400. Our team reviews your specific coverage and payment options with you before treatment so there are no surprises.
Should I get a bridge or an implant?
A major advantage of a bridge is speed: your missing tooth is replaced in about two weeks, without the months of healing an implant requires. An implant, though, doesn’t involve the neighboring teeth. Come in and Dr. Curry will weigh a bridge, implant, or partial denture for your situation.
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