Dental bridges are a common solution to replace missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, they offer a more permanent fix by using prosthetic teeth that attach to your natural teeth. These restorations help fill the gap left by a missing tooth, improving both the appearance and function of your smile.
Dental bridge cost without insurance can be high, but there are ways to cut the cost. When making your decision, it’s important to consider not just the upfront cost, but also the long-term benefits of restoring your smile with a well-fitted dental bridge. This guide will dive into the understanding, cost and factors affecting the cost of dental bridge without insurance.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that fills the gap caused by one or more missing teeth. It consists of crowns on both sides of the gap, often referred to as abutment teeth, with a false tooth or pontics in the middle. Dental bridges can be made from various materials, including gold, porcelain, alloys, or a combination of these.
They are designed to restore the function and appearance of your teeth, allowing you to speak and eat properly. If you have damaged teeth, a dental bridge can also provide the necessary support to maintain a uniform smile. This treatment option not only fills the gaps but also ensures that your bite remains effective.
Types of Dental Bridges:
Traditional fixed bridge:
A traditional fixed bridge is a common type of dental bridge used to replace missing teeth. It usually has two or more crowns that connect to a pontic or filler tooth in the middle. These bridges are made from materials like ceramic, porcelain, or metal, which makes them strong enough for chewing, especially for molars. The cost of this treatment typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. This option is irreversible, so it’s essential to discuss it with your dentist to see if it’s right for you.
Maryland dental bridge:
A Maryland dental bridge, also known as a resin-bonded bridge, is a good option for people with missing front teeth. This type of bridge works like a traditional bridge, but it doesn’t use a crown. Instead, it has metal or porcelain bands that bind a fake tooth to the back of adjacent, natural teeth. It typically costs between $1,500 and $2,500. The framework of the bridge has wings that attach to the sides of the supporting teeth, making it less expensive than other types of bridges.
Cantilever bridge:
A cantilever bridge is a type of dental bridge that uses one natural tooth to anchor an artificial tooth. This bridge is similar to a traditional one but is not as strong. It is a good option for people with missing teeth on one side of the gap. Cantilever bridges usually support a single fake tooth and can cost around $1,000 to $4,000.
Implant-supported bridge:
It is similar to the traditional bridge, but it is held in place by the implant rather cemented to existing tooth. The cost of the implant-supported bridge is between $5,000 to over $15,000.
How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost Without Insurance?
The cost of a dental bridge without insurance can be quite high. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on several factors. The type of bridge you choose, like a Maryland bridge, often has an average price of about $2,000 to $3,000. Other options, such as traditional or implant-supported bridges, can cost significantly more, sometimes reaching $15,000.
It is essential to consult your dentist about the materials used and the complexity of the procedure as these elements can greatly affect the overall price. When looking for a dental bridge, remember that the health of your neighboring teeth also plays a role in determining the final cost.
Factors Affecting Dental Bridge Costs:
There are many factors that affect the cost of dental bridge. Consider these factors if you want to reduce the cost of dental bridge. Moreover, choose the options that fits your budget. Here is the list of some common factors:
Materials used for the bridge:
The cost may vary due the material used. Porcelain material resembles the natural tooth but its cost is higher than other materials.
Complexity and difficulty in replacement of teeth:
The complexity depends on the material of the bridge. Some are more complex to handle while others less.
Number of teeth that need replacement:
More the number of missing teeth more the cost is and vice versa.
The type of dental bridge you’re getting:
Maryland, Implant-supported, traditional and Cantilever bridge have different prices due to their complexity and material.
Location of the dental office:
In the urban areas costs are high as compare to the rural areas.
What are the Additional dental work needed?
Like other dental procedures dental bridges also include some additional work such as:
Oral exam is an additional dental work that costs almost$50 to $200.
Dental X-ray are done to evaluate the condition of the teeth. This procedure costs $25 to $50.
Professional dental cleaning is crucial before the procedure. The cost may vary but the average cost is $70 to $250.
Local anesthesia is given to reduce the pain during the procedure, that costs $40 to $150.
Tooth extraction is another additional procedure. If tooth is damaged and needs to extract, it costs $50 to $500.
Does Insurance Cover Dental Bridges?
Most insurance companies consider dental bridges as medically necessary instead of just for cosmetic benefits. While cosmetic dentistry treatments like dental bonding might not be covered, dental bridges typically receive some coverage. If you’ve had your plan for at least two years, it’s common for your insurance to cover a portion of the cost, although some policies only cover a limited number of bridges within a certain period.
You may also have an annual maximum to consider, which could be as low as $1,000, leaving you to cover the remaining balance. If you’re one of the over 33% of people without dental benefits, you’ll need to pay the full out-of-pocket costs. At most dental clinics, the administrative staff can help you navigate insurance claims to ensure you’re getting the coverage you’re eligible for.
How to Afford a Dental Bridge Without Insurance?
If you do not have dental insurance, you can save your money if you consider these plans given below:
Find a free or low- cost dental provider
Go through a non- profit organization
Look online for discounts
Get cheap dental work from dental students
Participate in medical studies
Use government resources
Save up to pay upfront
Enroll in a dental discount plan
What are the Alternatives to a Dental Bridge?
Dental bridge is not the only option to improve your smile. There are some alternatives of the dental bridge which can help to improve the appearance of your mouth due to missing teeth.
Dental Implants:
Dental Implants are the titanium posts. They are implanted in the jawbone for the support of bridge. These implants are used when the surrounding teeth are not enough strong to hold the bridge.
Implants are permanent with the cost $1500 per tooth. Dentist charge extraction fee separately which can be $100 or more.
Partial dentures:
Partial dentures are similar to the bridge, covers the gap of missing teeth. They are not permanent can be removed while eating or sleeping. Dentists evaluate the need of partial dentures. Usually they are used when the surrounding teeth are not enough strong.
Bottom line:
In conclusion the dental cost without insurance can be high, but it can be reduced by several ways. The affordable options such as dental discount plans and payment arrangements with your dentist can reduce the cost. Moreover, compare different options for choose the right one that fits your budget. Don’t forget to ask about various available options to cover the dental bridge without insurance. Stay in touch for more updates. share your experience in the comments.
FAQs:
How much does a tooth bridge cost?
The average cost for the dental bridge is $1500 to $5000. However, the cost may vary depending on the type of bridge and additional expenses etc.
Can I bridge only two teeth?
Gap due to missing teeth can hinder your ability to speak and chew properly. If your 2-4 teeth are missing you can go for a dental bridge.
What can I use instead of a bridge?
If you do not want to go with the dental bridge. You can go for the alternatives such as dental implant, partial dentures and full dentures.
How much does a full dental bridge cost?
The cost of the dental bridge depends on the type of bridge you select. It can range from 2500-5000 dollars. The cost can be increased if you choose some add ons such as pontic or crown for each tooth.
Is dental bridge save?
Yes, if it is properly cared it can last for decades. However, avoid to chew hard and unnecessary foods like gums, nuts and ice etc.
