Dental bridges are an excellent and commonly used solution for replacing one to three consecutive missing teeth. In this article, we answer one of the most common questions: What material is best for dental bridges?
What Material Is Best for Dental Bridges?
Your choice of material for a dental bridge can depend on your budget and the tooth’s location. Let us look at available materials in detail:
- Zirconia is considered one of the best materials for dental bridges. It is a highly durable ceramic that can withstand the pressure of chewing and biting.
- Additionally, zirconia is stain-resistant. Zirconia dental bridges can last up to 20 years with proper care and look very natural.
- Porcelain is a common material for dental bridges. Porcelain bridges also look natural and are stain-resistant. However, although porcelain is durable, it may not be as durable as zirconia. Porcelain bridges typically last for 10 to 15 years.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges combine porcelain’s natural look with a sturdy metal base. However, the outer porcelain layer may wear off over time, revealing a metal line near the gumline. Porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges typically last for 10 to 15 years.
- All-metal bridges, made of silver amalgam or gold, are highly durable. However, because of their color, these bridges are noticeable and are typically used only for back teeth that aren’t visible when you smile or talk.
How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost
The price of a dental bridge depends on the type of the bridge, the material it is made of, and how many teeth it replaces:
- Traditional dental bridges (which rely on crowns on both sides of the gap for support) cost between $2,500 and $5,000, with zirconia, all-porcelain, and gold alloy bridges typically costing more than porcelain-fused-to-metal options.
- Cantilever bridges (supported by only one crown) cost between $2,000 and $4,500.
Maryland bridges (bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth using metal or porcelain wings) range between $2,000 and $3,000. - Implant-supported bridges are the most expensive because the procedure includes implant placement surgery. Depending on how many implants you need, an implant-supported bridge costs between $6,000 and $15,000.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Dental Bridge
Typically, it takes 2 to 4 weeks and 2 to 3 visits to get a dental bridge. During your first appointment, your dentist will prepare the supporting teeth for crowns and take impressions or scans of your bite. Also, temporary crowns or a bridge will be placed. Then, 10 to 14 days are required for your permanent custom bridge to be manufactured in a dental lab. Once your bridge is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and bond the permanent one to your teeth.
If you are getting an implant-supported bridge, the entire process may take 4 to 6 months, as the implant needs time to fuse with the jawbone and become stable before a bridge can be placed.
Get High-Quality Dental Bridges at The Smile Artists LA
If you need to replace a missing tooth with a dental bridge, schedule an appointment with an experienced dentist in Culver City today. At The Smile Artists LA, we use modern diagnostic methods and offer high-quality, reliable bridges. We are looking forward to your visit.
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