Dental bridges are a solution for patients who are missing one or more teeth. It is important to know that teeth work together in the mouth and the absence of one tooth leads to bite problems, pain from jaw tension, and affects self-esteem because of the appearance of your smile. This is why any missing teeth should always be replaced.

A dental bridge is usually made up of two crowns at the ends of the missing piece or pieces, these crowns support the bridge (false tooth) recovering the natural bite of the mouth. Only those who have healthy teeth at the ends to place the crowns can receive a dental bridge.

A dental bridge requires only a health vacation, since the procedure is completed with two visits to the clinic with only a few days between them.

During the first visit, the doctor reshapes the abutment teeth. He will reduce some of the enamel and dentin to make room for the future crown. Impressions or a digital scan of the teeth are then taken.

With the impressions a dental lab uses the mold or scan as a model to create your bridge, false teeth and crowns.

While you are waiting for your bridge a temporary one will be placed that serves to protect the exposed areas of your mouth.

At the second visit, your doctor removes the temporary bridge and places the permanent bridge. If any changes or adjustments are required the doctor will make them at this appointment.

It is important to understand that there are up to four different types of dental bridges, so talking about a single price is complex. To give you an idea, in the U.S. market, a traditional bridge ranges in price from $1,500 to $5,000. The implant-supported, or fixed, variants are much more expensive.

Most dental insurances include dental bridges in their coverage. However, you should always check with the insurer for feasibility, as pre-existing conditions or other variables may prevent the procedure from being covered.

Dental insurance usually covers within the range of 40% to 50% of the cost. Avoid surprises or inconveniences by always checking with your insurance provider for coverage amounts, maximum limits, co-payments, etc.

The definitive answer is that dental bridges are not permanent, they have a useful life of 5 to 15 years, depending on the materials used and above all on the care given to the bridge. A regular oral hygiene routine at home, with brushing and flossing, helps it last longer.

There is a risk that the bridge may become damaged or loose. This is caused by damage to surrounding teeth or problems directly on the dental crowns where the bridge is attached. In any scenario, it is recommended to visit the doctor to replace the bridge with a new one.