How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost in Nassau County, NY?
A dental bridge is a quality restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. Bridges restore chewing and speaking ability while completing your healthy smile.
In Nassau County, NY, dental bridges cost approximately $600 to $1,600 per tooth.
Parts of a Dental Bridge
- Abutment teeth: Traditional bridges rely on having healthy teeth on either side of the gap. If these teeth are weak, the bridge may fail. Your dentist may recommend an implant-supported bridge if you do not have healthy abutment teeth.
- Crowns: The abutment teeth receive dental crowns to hold the framework and artificial teeth.
- Pontics: These are the artificial teeth held between the crowned abutments. They sit on top of the gum.
- Framework: This structure holds the crowns and pontics together.
Dental Bridge Types
Traditional Bridge
A traditional bridge rests on two abutment teeth with dental crowns. The pontics sit between the crowns and fill the gap. Typically, this type of bridge works best when patients are missing only one or two teeth.
Cantilever Bridge
If only one abutment tooth is available, your dentist may choose a cantilever bridge. However, these bridges stress the abutment tooth; your dentist may recommend an implant-supported bridge.
Maryland Bridge
A Maryland bridge does not use crowns as abutments. Instead, it has tiny metal wings cemented to adjacent teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge is the sturdiest and longest-lasting type. It preserves the health of adjacent natural teeth while providing excellent chewing function. Two dental implants serve as abutments.
Good Candidates for Dental Bridges
- One or more missing teeth
- Strong teeth on either side of the gap or the ability to receive dental implants
- Healthy gums with no active periodontal disease
- Excellent oral hygiene
The Dental Bridge Process
The dental bridge process typically takes only a few appointments; your dentist can complete it in approximately two to three weeks.
First Appointment
Your dentist will explain how bridges work and determine whether you are a good candidate for the appliance.
If you proceed, your dentist will take a detailed set of digital or physical impressions. These impressions will help them design your bridge to blend harmoniously with your natural teeth.
The dentist will prepare your abutment teeth for crowns and take another set of impressions to ensure the bridge fits perfectly. You will go home with a temporary bridge to protect your prepared teeth.
Second Appointment
Your dentist will send specifications to the lab, and when your final bridge arrives, you will return to the office.
The doctor will check the bridge's fit. When you are both comfortable with it, they will cement the bridge in place.It may take a few weeks to become accustomed to the bridge. Let your dentist know if discomfort persists.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
Why should I replace a missing tooth with a bridge?
Your oral health may suffer if you do not replace a missing tooth. Your other teeth will shift, either becoming gapped or crowded. Plaque and food will gather in the empty socket, increasing your chances of tooth decay and gum disease. Your face shape may change, aging your appearance.
How do I care for my dental bridge?
Caring for a bridge is not difficult but requires discipline. Brush at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Clean under and around your dental bridge using interproximal brushes and floss threaders, which are easy to find at the pharmacy. Use a fluoride mouthwash. If you keep your bridge clean, it will last longer, and you will lower your chance of developing gum disease or tooth decay.
You will need to be cautious with certain types of food and drinks. Avoid anything too cold or hard, as these can crack or break your bridge. Avoid anything sticky that may become caught underneath. Do not chew your nails or non-food objects. Be cautious with chewy foods like steak and corn.
Contact The Ricco Dental Group
If you have a missing tooth, don't wait to replace it, or you risk endangering your oral health. A dental bridge can complete your healthy smile and improve your chewing ability.
Please contact us today at our offices in Plainview, NY, or Massapequa, NY. We would gladly schedule a consultation with one of our expert restorative dentists.
