If you are missing teeth, Indianapolis, IN dentist, Dr. Benjamin Stevens offers dental bridges. Dental bridges are one of the most popular and permanent ways to fix gaps between your teeth. Technological advances in modern dentistry make replacement teeth virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. More treatment options mean better choices for patients looking for a solution that fits their oral health needs, aesthetic goals, and budget.
Dr. Stevens offers a dental bridge as a replacement option for replacing missing teeth. A bridge is a custom-fabricated dental restoration designed to “bridge” the gap between teeth. We can use dental bridges to replace a single missing tooth or several consecutive missing teeth.
The bridgework is a series of prosthetic teeth linked together and supported by an anchor on either side of the gap. They’re made from high-quality dental ceramics and mimic the appearance of your adjacent teeth.
Dental Bridge Cost
The dental bridge cost will depend on the number and location of the missing teeth. The type of bridge and materials used will also factor into the cost. Dr. Stevens accepts all dental insurance and will file claims on your behalf at the time of your visit to maximize your benefits. Additionally, we offer third-party financing through Care Credit for patients who are concerned about cost.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridges – A traditional dental bridge is the most popular type. This type of bridge consists of a prosthetic tooth that we connect to two dental crowns that cover the teeth on either side of the gap. A disadvantage of this type of restoration is the stress it places on the natural teeth. The stress could lead to premature wear or cavity formation if adjacent teeth are in good health.
Cantilever Bridges – A cantilever dental bridge is similar to a traditional one. The only difference is that it has a dental crown on one side of a false tooth, not both. It can be just as strong and durable with proper care and routine visits to your dentist.
Maryland Bridge – We use the Maryland bridge when there are natural teeth on either side of the gap because of a missing tooth (or teeth). Where a traditional bridge uses dental crowns on the abutment teeth, a Maryland bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework that we bond to the abutment teeth.
Dental Implant Supported Dental Bridges – An implant-supported bridge is supported by dental implants and provides the most lifelike replacement for missing teeth. These have a 35% higher success rate compared to traditional bridgework, and they eliminate the need to degrade adjacent teeth.
Additionally, dental implants promote continued bone growth, preventing both bone shrinkage and gum recession associated with traditional bridges and dentures.
Dr. Stevens offers full-service implants from the comfort of our Indianapolis dentist office. He has extensive training and experience with dental implant procedures. Sometimes we will use a temporary bridge for 3-6 months while your implants heal.
Dental Bridge vs. Dental Implant
If you have missing teeth, two of the options available are dental implants and a dental bridge. There are advantages to each type of treatment. In general, Dr. Stevens supports a dental implant option to restore the mouth’s most natural function and health.
Some patients may not be a candidate for dental implants because of their bone structure or the location of the missing teeth. In those cases, a bridge may be the best option. When compared to dental implants, the bridge is a more affordable option.
Schedule a Dental Exam & Consultation
If you have missing teeth, we offer a dental bridge in our Indianapolis, IN and Greenwood, IN area office. Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Stevens at Beautiful Smiles. We will discuss your oral health, concerns, and budget to see which missing teeth option is right for you.