- The cost of dental bridge in the U.S. ranges from $1,500 to $16,000. The average price for a traditional bridge is $2,500. Insurance may cover some of the cost.
- The final price depends on the number of adjacent teeth in the gap for filling. The material of the bridge also determines the price.
- A dental exam, dental X-rays, tooth extraction and local anesthesia can add to the final cost.
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Dental bridges can be a long-term solution for tooth loss, lasting between 10 and 15 years on average before replacement is needed. But how much will they cost you? Here's everything you need to know.
How much does a dental bridge cost without insurance?
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Dental bridge prices range from $1,500 to $16,000 across the US. The average cost of a dental bridge ranges from $1,700 to $5,500, depending on its type.
| TYPE OF BRIDGE | AVERAGE COST | COST RANGE |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional bridge | $2,500 | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Cantilever bridge | $2,500 | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Maryland | $1,750 | $1,500-$2,500 |
| Implant-supported | $5,500 | $4,000 -$16,000 |
The final charge depends on several factors.
The most important one is how many adjacent teeth are in the gap you want to fill. If you are looking to replace more than one natural tooth you should add about $1,300 for each pontic to your estimate.
Other aspects consist of the material used in each type of dental bridge and the location of the dental office.
Associated costs of a dental bridge
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While thinking about the overall dental bridge price, you should take into consideration associated procedures.
| PROCEDURE | AVERAGE COST | COST RANGE |
|---|---|---|
| Oral exam | $100 | $50-$200 |
| Dental X-rays | $35 | $25-$50 |
| Tooth extraction | $200 | $50-$500 |
| Local anesthesia | $90 | $40-$150 |
| Professional cleaning | $100 | $70-$250 |
Note, that not everyone needs a traditional bridge. In each case, a dentist makes an individual decision to determine the best treatment for each patient, based on bridge functions and position, among other factors.
Dental exam
Primarily, a dentist needs to evaluate whether the dental bridge is the best option for you. The teeth adjacent to the missing one have to be in great condition to provide enough support for the restoration. Any signs of decay or gum disease have to be taken care of first.
The average price of an oral examination is $100.
X-rays
An X-ray may be necessary to make sure that everything is okay. The most common type needed for a dental bridge is a bitewing X-ray. It shows a small section of the lower and upper teeth, so the doctor can take a closer look at the area where the restoration will be placed.
You will have to pay between $25 and $50 for a dental X-ray.
Tooth extraction
In case the tooth that is about to be replaced with the bridge is still in your mouth, it has to be extracted. This procedure must take place at least 2 weeks beforehand, so the soft tissue can heal.
Tooth extraction prices vary a lot, starting from $50 and going up to $500.
Teeth cleaning
To avoid any issues in the future, the permanent restoration needs to be placed on a perfectly sterile spot. Right before installing the bridge, the area underneath will be thoroughly cleaned.
To make this part just a formality, it’s best to have regular cleanings twice a year, even if you don’t plan on getting a dental bridge in the near future.
Professional cleaning will cost you between $70 and $250.
Does dental insurance cover a bridge?
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Since dental bridges are usually medically necessary, many insurance policies are willing to cover at least some of the cost. Oral exams and X-rays can count as preventative care, so they are likely to be fully covered. If tooth extraction before the dental bridge is necessary, you can count on 50% coverage.
Associated procedures really speed up reaching the yearly maximum, which means that for subsequent dental treatments you will have to pay out-of-pocket. An additional downside is the obligation to collect all the documentation necessary for the insurance provider.
The option we recommend is signing up for a dental plan. They work like memberships, there is a monthly or annual fee and you get discounts on absolutely all dental procedures. There are no yearly caps and no paperwork needs to be gathered. With this option, the dental bridge cost with insurance may be even 60% lower. You can sign up for the plan regardless of whether you have insurance or not. If you do, the cost reduction will start once you max out your insurance yearly limit.
FAQ
Is a bridge cheaper than an implant?
Costs of both types of restoration vary greatly depending on many factors, such as materials or the location of the office. In general, dental bridges tend to be cheaper than implants, which prices start at $3,500. What’s more, most insurance providers are more likely to cover some costs of the bridges.
On the other hand, implants are more durable, so you have to replace them less often.
What affects the cost of dental bridges the most?
Dental bridge placement is a complex procedure that includes other kinds of restorations. A traditional bridge consists of two crowns on the sides of the missing one. An implant-supported bridge requires surgery, which drives costs up.
The main factors affecting the final price tag are the number of missing teeth, type of bridge, and materials used.
How much does dental bridge repair cost?
The cost of dental bridge repair depends on the type of repair and the materials used. Typically, this service costs between $200 and $900.
Simple repairs, such as recementing a loose bridge, tend to cost less and rarely exceed $500, while replacing parts of the bridge can be more expensive.
How much does it cost to remove a dental bridge?
The cost of dental bridge removal depends on the type of bridge and the complexity of the case.
Removing traditional bridges, which may involve more complex cutting or detaching, tends to be more expensive, starting from around $400. In contrast, removing a simple adhesive bridge is often cheaper, typically priced between $200 and $300.