When it comes to dental bridges, options can feel overwhelming and it’s hard to know where to start. At Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that choosing dental care is a big decision. We’re committed to guiding you every step of the way to ensure the solution we provide is the very best one for your individual needs and lifestyle. 

Whether you’re dealing with a solitary missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, or jaw issues, our team is knowledgeable and skilled to assess your smile and identify the best possible solution.

We take pride in fostering open and clear communication, ensuring you are well-informed and empowered with all the necessary information.

What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are a popular and dependable method of replacing lost teeth. Dental crowns fastened to nearby teeth or implants firmly hold the prosthetic teeth, or pontics, that make up dental bridges. Bridges not only make your smile look better, but they also make it easier for you to talk and eat. They also aid in preventing the displacement of any remaining teeth.

Types of Dental Bridges

  • Traditional Bridges: The most common type, featuring one or more pontics held in place by dental crowns cemented to the adjacent teeth.
  • Cantilever Bridges: Just like with traditional bridges, but the pontic is supported by a crown on only one side.
  • Maryland Bridges: A less invasive option involves securing the pontic in position using a metal or porcelain framework, which is bonded to the rear surfaces of the nearby teeth.
  • Implant-Supported Bridges: For individuals with multiple missing teeth, dental implants support these bridges rather than using crowns or frameworks.

The Process of Getting a Dental Bridge

  • Initial Consultation: The first step of your journey involves a thorough assessment to determine whether a dental bridge is the suitable option for you.
  • Preparation of Adjacent Teeth: For traditional and cantilever bridges, the adjacent teeth are prepared for crowns. They are reshaped to ensure a proper fit.
  • Impressions and Customization: Dental impressions capture the details of your teeth, forming the basis for crafting a personalized bridge that not only fits seamlessly but also blends harmoniously with the natural color and even shape of your teeth.
  • Temporary Bridge: Your dentist may place a temporary bridge while your custom bridge is being made. 
  • Final Bridge Placement: Once ready, the final bridge is carefully adjusted and cemented into place.

Life with Your New Dental Bridge: Adjustments, Care, and Maintenance

After receiving a dental bridge at Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, it’s essential to know what to expect and how to care for your new restoration. Here’s a brief overview to guide you through this phase:

Adjustment Period Post-Bridge Placement

  • Getting Accustomed: When you first receive your dental bridge, there may be an initial period of adjustment. It’s common to experience mild sensitivity to temperature changes or pressure, especially in the first few weeks. This is a normal reaction as your mouth adjusts to the new appliance.
  • Speaking and Eating: You might also notice slight changes in speaking or eating. Practice speaking out loud and start with softer foods, gradually returning to your normal diet as you become more comfortable with the bridge.

Essential Care and Maintenance

  • Daily Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene is paramount to the longevity of your dental bridge. Regular brushing twice a day and flossing are crucial. Pay special attention to cleaning the areas around and under the bridge.
  • Special Flossing Techniques: Using floss threaders or water flossers can be incredibly helpful in cleaning hard-to-reach areas under the bridge. This prevents plaque or cavity buildup and gum disease around the abutment teeth.
  • Routine Dental Check-ups: Regular check-ups and professional cleanings at Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry are important. These visits allow us to monitor the condition of your bridge and the health of surrounding teeth and gums.
  • Avoiding Certain Habits: To protect the bridge, it is recommended to steer clear of hard or sticky food. Furthermore, if you tend to grind or clench your teeth, please inform us so that we may offer solutions to safeguard your bridge.

Remember, your dental bridge is an investment in your smile and overall oral health. Taking care of it will ensure it serves you well for many years. At Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your transition to life with a dental bridge is smooth and comfortable.

Benefits of Choosing Dental Bridges

  • Enhanced Smile and Appearance: Bridges fill the gaps in your smile, enhancing its overall appearance.
  • Enhanced Functionality: They bring back the capacity to chew and speak effectively.
  • Preventing Misalignment: Bridges help prevent the adjacent teeth from moving, which could result in bite issues and other dental problems.

Longevity and Durability of Dental Bridges

  • Built to Last: With adequate care and regular maintenance, dental bridges can endure for 5 to 15 years, and occasionally, they may even last longer.
  • Material Matters: The longevity of a bridge can depend on the materials used, the health of supporting teeth, and your oral care habits.

Cost Considerations

Investing in a dental bridge is not only an investment in your smile but also in your overall oral health and well-being. At Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand the importance of transparent and accessible financial information regarding dental treatments. Let’s break down the cost considerations for dental bridges:

Understanding the Cost of Dental Bridges

  • Factors Affecting Price: The cost of dental bridges can vary significantly, and several factors play into this. The type of bridge (traditional, cantilever, Maryland, or implant-supported), the materials used (porcelain, ceramic, gold, or metal alloys), and the complexity of the placement procedure all influence the final price.
  • Average Price Range: On average, you can expect the cost for dental bridges to range from $2,000 to $5,000. This range includes the cost of materials and the labor involved in crafting and placing the bridge. The price can increase if additional procedures such as tooth extraction or dental implants are required.
  • Material and Durability: The choice of material can affect both the cost and the longevity of the bridge. For instance, porcelain or ceramic bridges, known for their aesthetic appeal, might be on the higher end of the price spectrum but offer excellent durability and a natural look.

Insurance Coverage and Payment Options

  • Insurance Benefits: Many dental insurance plans offer coverage for a portion of the cost of dental bridges, especially when they are needed for functional reasons. We will assist you in understanding and maximizing your insurance benefits.
  • Flexible Payment Solutions: Recognizing that not all patients have dental insurance or sufficient coverage, we provide a variety of payment plans and options. Our aim is to make dental bridges, a crucial aspect of dental health, accessible to all our patients. We are flexible in creating a payment plan that aligns with your budget, making sure that financial limitations don’t stand in the way of your access to essential dental care.

At Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality dental care that’s financially accessible. We believe that everyone deserves a complete and functional smile, and our team is committed to helping you achieve this with financial solutions that fit your individual needs.

Why Choose Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry for Your Dental Bridges?

  • Expertise and Precision: Our team has extensive experience in crafting and placing bridges, ensuring each one fits perfectly and looks natural.
  • Customized Care: We understand that each patient’s needs are unique. We offer tailored and individualized care throughout the entire process, starting from the initial consultation up to the final placement of your bridge.
  • Advanced Technology: We use the latest dental technology and materials to create bridges that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

Let Us Bridge the Gap in Your Smile!

If you’re considering a dental bridge or just want to learn more, Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry is here to assist you. We’re passionate about restoring smiles and enhancing the quality of life of our patients. 

Let us guide you through the process of getting a dental bridge, and together, let’s bring back the fullness and beauty of your smile!