If you are missing one or several teeth, your dentist may recommend dental implants or dental bridges to fill the gaps.
More than 36 million people in the U.S. are missing all their teeth, while 120 million have at least one missing tooth, according to the American College of Prosthodontists.
Dental bridges are effective for replacing missing teeth but can be expensive. To assist you in preparing for this procedure, we've compiled some financial information about dental implant bridges cost.
Breakdown Of Dental Implant Bridges Cost
A dental bridge's cost depends on a variety of factors, including:
- Location: Dental bridges in the U.S. can start at $1,500 for a Maryland bridge and go as high as $16,000 for implant-supported bridges.
- Number Of Teeth: The cost of a bridge is higher if more than one tooth needs to be replaced. The cost of a three-unit bridge ranges from $2,500 to $4,000. If you have a larger gap, you may need to spend about $1,300 per tooth for a bridge without an implant.
- Type Of Bridge: Implant-supported bridges are more expensive. 3-unit bridges cost $500 to $1,500. The same bridge supported by an implant could cost up to $5,000.
- Tooth Material Used: Porcelain resembles natural teeth the best, so it is the most popular choice. This also makes it more expensive than other alternatives.
- Dental Care Required For Supporting Teeth: Your dentist will want to treat decay or damage on the supporting teeth first. The cost of that will be added to your overall estimate. Costs rise with implanted bridges due to surgery.
How Much A Dental Bridge Actually Costs
Your particular set of circumstances and the type of bridge you require will determine the final cost of your dental bridge. Each bridge requires a different procedure, which means the cost will vary accordingly. Here are the four variations and their associated cost ranges:
The Traditional Dental Bridge
An artificial tooth is placed between two adjacent teeth that each receives a crown for support. This is the most common type of bridge and is typically used when one tooth is missing. This procedure may require several visits and cost between $3,000 and $4,500. Additionally, the type of material used by the laboratory for the crowns and pontics, such as ceramic or porcelain with metal, will contribute to the final cost.
The Cantilever Bridge
It is like a traditional bridge but with only one anchor or abutment tooth. So just one tooth is prepared for a crown, which the artificial tooth is then bonded to. A cantilever bridge will cost around $2,000 to $2,700.
The Maryland Bridge
Two anchor teeth are still needed in this procedure, but they won't receive crowns. Artificial teeth are mounted on wireframes, which are then bonded to anchor teeth. Ceramic or porcelain is used for the pontic, but you don't have to shave down your anchor teeth. Dental bridges like this cost between $800 and $2,000.
The Implant-Supported Bridge
In the case of three missing teeth in a row, you will need two implants connected by a bridge. The cost of the implants (including abutments) is about $2,000-3,000 each, and the cost of the bridge is approximately $3,000-$4,500.
These dental bridge prices may differ from those in your area. Your local dentist can provide you with an accurate cost estimate.
Associated Costs With A Dental Bridge
All dental procedures have associated costs. In addition to a dental bridge, you may have to pay for:
| Associated Costs | Price Range |
| Local Anesthesia | $40 - $150 |
| Tooth Extraction | $50 - $500 |
| Dental X-rays | $25 - $50 |
| Professional Cleaning | $70 - $250 |
| Oral Exam | $50 - $200 |
When Are Dental Bridges Needed
You can restore your oral health and your mouth with a dental bridge. In most cases, dental bridges are effective solutions for people with healthy teeth surrounding a gap in their mouth. This procedure is usually less expensive than dental implants, and it is also more comfortable than dentures.
The procedure can be used to replace missing teeth permanently. However, bridges require healthy adjacent teeth and tissues to support them. The procedure is usually unsuitable for patients with unhealthy dental tissue, severe bone loss, or poor oral hygiene.
Financial Aid Options For Dental Bridges
It is possible to get financial assistance if you are unable to pay for a dental bridge.
People with disabilities, seniors, veterans, and low-income individuals may be eligible for free or low-cost dental bridges.
Programs offering this dental care aid include:
- Donated Dental Services
- Give Back a Smile
- Clinical trials
- National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics
- Dental schools
- State and local resources, including health departments
Frequently Asked Questions
You may have several questions about dental implant bridges and their costs if you are considering them. Here, we have answered some of the most frequently asked queries.
Implant bridges last longer when properly cared for. Maintaining your jawbone's health is also important. A bridge can last between 10 and 20 years. If you have implants and a bridge, you might never need to replace them.
CEREC technology allows bridges to be placed in one visit, meaning dental bridges cost much less than implants. And as long as you follow a sound oral health regimen, a bridge should last about ten years.
A dental bridge is not recommended for you if you have low jawbone density or dental problems requiring root canals, as these problem teeth may become infected or damaged.
Bridge Your Dental Gaps
Unlike partial dentures, dental bridges permanently attach to nearby teeth to replace missing ones. Based on the materials and the number of missing teeth, dental implant bridges cost up to $5,000. An implant-supported dental bridge costs more than $10,000.
Can't decide between getting a dental bridge or an implant? To learn about their respective costs, check out our article discussing the cost of a dental bridge vs an implant.
The cost of dental care is reduced with dental insurance. If you don't have insurance, a dental discount plan may be able to help. You can find out if you are eligible for free or low-cost dental implants in our Gov-Relations resources.
