How Much Does A Dental Bridge Cost With Insurance?

Find out the cost of a dental bridge with insurance in this article.

Achieving and maintaining optimal dental health doesn’t always come cheap. For many, the cost of a visit to the dentist can be exorbitant without insurance coverage. In this article, we’ll delve into exactly what your out-of-pocket expenses may look like when obtaining a dental bridge with public or private health insurance – as well as explore ways you can reduce these costs while still prioritizing your oral hygiene.

Missing teeth can cause long-term problems, such as misalignment of the remaining teeth and an unflattering change in facial structure. Although dental implants are commonly regarded to be the best replacement solution for missing teeth due to their permanence, the cost is often a limiting factor. Dental bridges present a viable alternative that may be better suited for growing mouths still undergoing development since they allow movement without requiring complete implantation surgery.

Dental extensions, known as bridges, provide an aesthetically pleasing solution to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. A bridge consists of two crowns fitted onto the natural “abutment” teeth on either side of the gap; these anchoring elements resemble pillars standing next to one another and supporting replacement pontics (or false teeth) between them. These pontics can be made with multiple materials such as porcelain, gold, and amalgam alloys for durability, plus additional support from neighboring regular dental implants when needed.

As more Americans strive for a confident, radiant smile through dental restorations, the popularity of dental bridges is on the rise. A critical aspect of receiving this treatment pertains to its cost; here are some key insights regarding what one may expect when budgeting for their bridge restoration procedure.

If you are considering the costs of a dental bridge with insurance, you have come to the right place. We have gathered all relevant information to help you learn more about everything you need to know. So, what are you waiting for? Let us jump right in!

 Image Source: nensuria/Freepik
Image Source: nensuria/Freepik

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is an innovative restoration that seamlessly replaces a missing tooth, allowing patients to improve their smile without anyone noticing. The prosthetic device bridges the gap between remaining teeth and consists of one or more artificial teeth secured in place by anchoring it onto adjacent healthy structures for stability. With custom-made construction to match surrounding natural dentition, this restorative solution ensures results look incredibly realistic!

How many teeth can a bridge cover?

How many teeth can a bridge cover
Image Source: Verywell Health

Dental bridges provide stunning solutions for complex dental problems, such as replacing multiple teeth with a single bridge. During consultations between dentists and specialists, the three-unit or ‘three teeth’ connection describes the process of crowning two adjacent teeth to replace one missing tooth – an incredibly effective solution that can restore your smile!

It is normal for a scaffold to supplant 2, 3, 4, or considerably more teeth as long as sufficient teeth are associated with dental crowns. Likewise, implants can be deliberately positioned to supplant teeth, either as unsupported teeth or as help for a scaffold utilizing both natural teeth and inserts.

Replacement of front and back teeth can be essential for proper dental health. Without a replacement, the shifting of surrounding teeth could result in pain or even TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) issues over time. A bridge is often recommended as a solution, but it may require further contemplation among patients before their decision is made due to potential cost considerations.

Missing teeth can be a cause for concern, but dental specialists provide options to help their patients live healthier lives. Dental bridges may be recommended as one option for restoring healthy smiles, yet it is not an urgent decision, and no patient should feel pressured into making such an important choice. Orthodontics is often needed prior to any extensive care being done on adult guardians; this process usually happens gradually over time and gives families a chance to best prepare themselves before undergoing more serious work.

dental bridge cost
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Factors affecting the cost of dental bridges

The cost of a dental bridge depends on different factors, such as:

Materials used

The perfect smile is within reach; modern materials like porcelain and zirconia offer superior strength, beauty, and durability to make sure your teeth remain in optimal health. Highly sought after by patients due to their longevity even with everyday use, these cutting-edge materials will ensure you keep a radiant grin for years to come – albeit at an extra cost!

The manufacturing process

Ordinarily, dental bridges are manufactured in dental labs. However, a few dental specialists offer same-day assembling of scaffolds in their centers. The cost of the dental extension is a smidgen more in this subsequent choice since rebuilding efforts in a solitary-day arrangement requires modern and advanced digital innovation.

Complexity in placing and fixing dental bridges

The expenses are greater for all those dental extension techniques that are long, tedious, and highly developed. For example, the expense of an implant-supported bridge is higher than the expense of a conventional crown-supported bridge.

Extra treatments

Now and then, there is a need to perform different treatments while putting in an extension. These extra techniques are excluded from the dental extension cost.

 Image Source: artursafronovvvv/Freepik
Image Source: artursafronovvvv/Freepik

The years of experience your dentist has

Experienced and well-known dental specialists often command a higher fee than less experienced practitioners. In addition, working with specialist implantologists or ceramists may also increase the cost – however, many patients are willing to pay more for desirable outcomes.

Geographic location

Like different things, dental consideration likewise costs more in different territories of the nation. For instance, the expense of remedial treatment is high for patients living in major metropolitan centers.

dental bridge cost
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How much does an oral bridge cost?

Dental bridges offer a pathway to that coveted perfect smile by seamlessly replacing missing teeth. Costs vary, but typically, patients invest between $300 to $1,000 per bridge for a single tooth replacement. Opting for an all-porcelain bridge may push expenses higher, while factors like cantilever bridges or extensive dental work can further influence costs. It’s wise to begin by exploring local dental specialists to gain clarity on pricing. Some insurance plans cover these procedures, while others classify them as cosmetic and require out-of-pocket payment. Ensure you’re fully informed about costs before proceeding with any dental bridge treatment.

Types of dental bridges and what each type costs?

There are four types of dental bridges. These types are given below:

Traditional dental bridge

A conventional dental bridge is a popular form of prosthetic tooth replacement and typically consists of a false tooth or teeth held in place via two crowned abutment teeth on either side. Costs can vary, but one pontic and crown per adjacent tooth usually runs between $2,000-$5,000 – an economical way to restore your smile!

Cantilever dental bridge

A cantilever dental bridge is ideal for those looking to replace a missing tooth. Similar in look and cost to its traditional counterpart, the difference lies in only one anchoring crown required – making it a more budget-friendly option. So when searching for the perfect smile replacement, consider investing in a cantilever dental bridge!

Maryland dental bridge

Maryland bridges offer a cost-effective solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. They rely on two adjacent natural teeth, referred to as abutment teeth, which provide support by way of metal or porcelain structures bonded onto their backs – unlike traditional bridges that use dental crowns instead. As long as you have an intact tooth positioned on either side of the gap left behind by your lost tooth/teeth, this type of bridge is suitable, and costs range from $1,500-$2,500 per pontic (artificial replacement) supported with framework materials.

Implant-supported dental bridge

Embed-supported bridges are the most reliable method for replacing missing teeth. An individual implant is positioned into each space left from tooth extraction, providing a solid foundation to anchor and secure bridgework in place. In cases where one implant per absence isn’t an option, pontics can be suspended between two implants that support the bridge structure. Implant-supported bridges involve dual procedures – placement of dental implants followed by attachment of the restoration – giving you peace of mind that your smile will look solid and natural again!

It can take various months for the method to be wrapped up.

Below is a table for the tooth replacement options described:

Dental bridge Dental implant and crown Denture
Permanency Fixed to adjacent teeth; non-removable Implanted in the jaw bone, fixed in place Removable
Longevity 5-15 years, possibly longer 20+ years 5-10 years, possibly longer
Comfort Like natural teeth if fitted well // May become loose over time and cause discomfort
Appearance Like natural teeth // May look artificial; metal clips may be visible

 

Function Like natural teeth // Certain foods must be avoided; remove them to clean
Cost Medium High Low
Other pros/cons Requires removal of enamel on neighboring teeth Involves surgery; small risk of infection Can slip out of place; easy
 Image Source: Rochak Shukla/Freepik
Image Source: Rochak Shukla/Freepik

Is your dental bridge treatment covered by insurance?

The simple answer to this question is yes. If you have dental insurance, you may be eligible for almost 50% of coverage for your dental bridge treatment, up to a yearly limit of $1000 to $2000. Unfortunately, some insurance agencies have such segments that express that the patient must be on the arrangement for a minimal measure of time, like 2 years, before it will cover the treatment.

A missing tooth can damage oral well-being and harm the dental capacity of a person which in turn may cause oral health issues. That is the reason dental protection either completely or mostly takes care of the expense of a dental extension. Some insurance agencies occasionally just spread the expense of the fundamental dental scaffold technique and the patients need to pay any additional expenses without anyone else. For example, protection may cover just such a reclamation that is porcelain or crown-upheld. On the off chance that zirconia scaffold or embedded upheld rebuilding is required, the patient needs to pay these extra expenses using cash on hand. At the greater part of the dental centers, the regulatory staff helps the patients in recording their qualifications Furthermore, it guarantees that the patients get the total inclusion they are qualified for.

How long does a dental bridge last?

With proper dental hygiene and regular check-ups, your bridge can last for up to a decade or longer! Dental scaffolds are made of resilient material that typically has an impressive lifespan of between 5 and 15 years.

How long does a dental bridge last
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Dental bridge problems

Given below are the three problems that dental bridges may be causing:

Formation of decay

Maintaining optimal oral hygiene can be challenging With a dental bridge.  However, special tools are necessary for cleaning the food particles and bacteria from around the bridge. If left uncleaned or untreated, decay in teeth that support bridges may result in failure of the restoration itself – often necessitating a replacement. A more permanent solution is available though: by utilizing dental implants as replacements for missing teeth instead of relying on bridgework alone to help ensure long-lasting results!

Unnatural looking bridge

Dental bridges serve the dual purpose of restoring function and aesthetics. After all, a bridge will not just enable you to eat easier; it is also a statement that boosts your confidence! Therefore, if the shade or shape of your bridge does not harmonize with the rest of your teeth, corrective measures such as gum sculpting may be taken to enhance its natural appearance.

Suppose discoloration turns out to be an issue – no worries! Teeth whitening treatments can create uniformity and charm for one’s smile overall. You deserve nothing less than gorgeousness from this investment after all.

The bridge does not fit well

Poor-fitting dental extensions can cause a range of issues, from difficult chewing to pain. If your bridge has become ill-fitting due to decay or an improper fit when it was initially created, we may be able to adjust the teeth that support it. Alternatively, if needed, we suggest replacing the extension entirely so you can get maximum performance and comfort levels out of your prosthesis. In some cases where there is extensive rot on supporting areas, replacement might be unavoidable – but do not worry, as our team is here to help ensure any new appliance fits perfectly!

Dental bridge removal cost

Removing a dental bridge can range in price from $250-500, and there are multiple methods to do so. The simplest way is removing the pontics portion of the extension while leaving behind its projection part. However, if you choose to eliminate the entire structure instead, then new crowns may be needed for teeth previously supported by it. Contact your local dentist for further details on these options – they’ll provide additional insights into how best to proceed with this important process!

FAQs

How long do dental bridges last?

Dental bridges can last many years, but they will eventually need replacement. The lifespan of a dental bridge depends on how well it is cared for and how much wear and tear it experiences. Most dental bridges will last between five and seven years with proper care.

Is it hard to eat or speak with a dental bridge?

With a dental bridge, eating and speaking should be easy. It may take some time to adjust – but soon enough, you’ll feel like the bridge is part of your mouth! If adjusting isn’t helping, let your dentist know—they can customize it for comfortable use.

Can I take care of my dental bridge at home?

Yes, you can take care of your dental bridge at home. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth twice a day and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

How long does it take to get used to a dental bridge?

Getting used to your dental bridge may take a few days or weeks. You may find that your tongue feels uncomfortable when it rubs against the bridge. You may also have some mild pain and soreness in your mouth for the first few days. These symptoms should go away as you get used to the sensation of having a dental bridge

How long do I have to wait after a tooth extraction to get a bridge?

You will need to wait until your gums have healed before getting a dental bridge. This usually takes about four to six weeks. In some cases, your dentist may place a temporary bridge while you are waiting for your gums to heal.

Should a dental bridge cause pain while chewing?

If you are experiencing pain while chewing, it is important to talk to your dentist. They can determine if the pain is due to the dental bridge or another underlying condition.

What are the risks of getting a dental bridge?

There are some risks associated with getting a dental bridge, but these are typically minor. These risks include pain, soreness, and irritation. In rare cases, a dental bridge can cause an infection. If you experience any severe pain or discomfort after getting a dental bridge, be sure to talk to your dentist.

Can I whiten my dental bridge if it no longer matches my teeth?

Yes, you can whiten your dental bridge if it no longer matches your teeth. You can talk to your dentist about the best way to whiten your bridge. They may recommend a professional teeth whitening treatment or at-home teeth whitening kit.

Conclusion

When determining the suitability and cost of dental bridges, consulting a reputable and experienced dentist is crucial. Dental bridges offer numerous benefits and are a worthwhile investment in the long run. However, if affordability becomes a concern, it’s essential to explore alternative tooth replacement options like dentures and dental implants with your dentist. Prioritizing good oral health is paramount, so it’s important to consider both short-term and long-term expenses when making decisions about your dental care. By doing so, you can ensure that your smile remains healthy, natural, beautiful, and fully functional for years to come.

John Otero

John Otero

John Otero is an industry practitioner with more than 15 years of experience in the insurance industry. He has held various senior management roles both in the insurance companies and insurance brokers during this span of time. He began his insurance career in 2004 as an office assistant at an agency in her hometown of Duluth, MN. He got licensed as a producer while working at that agency and progressed to serve as an office manager. Working in the agency is how he fell in love with the industry. He saw firsthand the good that insurance consumers experienced by having the proper protection. John has diverse experience in corporate & consumer insurance services, across a range of vocations. His specialties include Major Corporate risk management and insurance programs, and Financial Lines He has been instrumental in making his firm as one of the leading organizations in the country in generating sustainable rapid growth of the company while maintaining service excellence to clients.