If your dentist has recommended a dental bridge to replace a missing tooth or several teeth in your mouth, you may be wondering how long it takes to get used to having a new bridge in your mouth. Although this is a common concern, the good news is that a dental bridge can feel like a normal, natural part of your mouth in as little as two weeks.

What to Expect When Getting Used to a Dental Bridge

It usually takes about two weeks to get used to a dental bridge and feel like it's fully integrated with your natural teeth. During the adjustment period, you might experience soreness, changes in your bite, or tooth sensitivity. During this time, the tissues around the bridge, including your gums, muscles, and nerves, must adjust to the restoration.

You might need to adjust your eating habits during this short time period in order to decrease potential discomfort. Avoid very hot or very cold foods, as well as popcorn, hard candy, gum, and sticky candy.

It’s common to feel some mild discomfort as your mouth adjusts. For the first few days, using toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers.

When to Contact Your Dentist

Be sure to contact your dentist as soon as possible if:

• Your bite is uncomfortable
• You notice swelling or bleeding in the gums around your bridge

If your bridge still feels uncomfortable or loose after two weeks, it may need to be re-installed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges

What is a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are one option for replacing missing teeth and are typically more affordable than dental implants. They are a dental device that includes one, two, or three false teeth to replace missing teeth. The bridge must be attached to the neighboring teeth using dental crowns to hold it securely in place. A dental bridge improves appearance, chewing function, and speech clarity. Unlike dentures, a dental bridge is fixed in place by the dentist and is not removable.

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

Dental bridges can improve one's appearance, chewing ability, and quality of life. With proper care and maintenance, they can last five to 15 years or longer. To increase the longevity of your bridge, follow your dentist's instructions and guidance. Maintain good oral hygiene at home and see your dentist regularly.

Ready to Learn More About Dental Bridges? Contact Oakland Dental Care Today

Whether you were born without a permanent tooth, lost one later in life, or had to have one removed, our dental professionals are here to help you with your options. If you are ready to learn more about dental bridges and find out if this option is right for you, reach out to our knowledgeable team. Call us today at 201-337-7733 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.

Dental bridges are an excellent, lower-cost option for replacing missing teeth. If you are considering improving your smile with dental bridges, you might be wondering how much a dental bridge costs with insurance in Oakland, NJ.

Cost of Dental Bridges With Insurance Coverage

The cost of a dental bridge with insurance in Oakland, New Jersey, depends on the type of bridge, your insurance plan, and other factors. Consider the following:

Insurance Plan

Your insurance plan will determine how much you pay for a dental bridge. Some plans cover 50–80% of the cost after you meet your deductible. You can check with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.

Type of Bridge

Different types of bridges have different average costs:

• Traditional bridge: Costs around $2,500 without insurance or $1,250 with 50% insurance coverage

• Cantilever bridge: Costs around $2,500 without insurance or $1,250 with 50% insurance coverage

• Maryland bridge: Costs around $1,750 without insurance or $875 with 50% insurance coverage

• Implant-supported bridge: Costs around $5,500 without insurance or $2,750 with 50% insurance coverage

Number of Missing Teeth

The number of missing teeth to be replaced affects the cost. More missing teeth will increase the price.

Other Treatments

Additional treatments, such as dental crowns, gum disease treatment, or root canals, can also increase the cost.

Other factors that can affect the cost of a dental bridge include the materials used and the complexity of the procedure. Your dentist can provide a personalized treatment plan and financing options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges

Is Anyone a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?

Yes, nearly anyone who is missing at least one tooth can be a candidate for a dental bridge. However, additional considerations determine if a dental bridge is the most suitable option for a patient. The surrounding teeth must be healthy and strong enough to support the bridge, as they often act as anchors (abutments) for the replacement tooth or teeth. If the adjacent teeth are damaged or weakened, they may need to be treated or reinforced before placing the bridge.

Dental bridges are also ideal for patients who want a non-invasive solution compared to dental implants, which require surgery. A dentist will evaluate the patient’s overall oral health, bite alignment, and personal preferences to determine if a dental bridge is the best restorative option.

What is the Process for Getting a Dental Bridge?

The process for getting a dental bridge generally involves two appointments, though additional visits may be necessary depending on the complexity of the case. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth, known as abutment teeth, to support the bridge. After this, your dentist will take impressions or digital scans of your teeth, which are sent to a dental lab to create a custom bridge that fits your mouth precisely.

At the second appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and check the fit and appearance of the permanent one. Adjustments may be made to ensure the bridge aligns properly with your bite and looks natural. Once satisfied with the fit, your dentist will bond the bridge in place using dental cement or a similar adhesive, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.

Is a Dental Bridge Right for You? Contact Oakland Dental Care to Learn More

If you are ready to determine whether a dental bridge is right for you or have questions about affordability, our dental professionals at Oakland Dental Care are here to answer your questions and address your concerns. Call us today at 201-337-7733 to schedule a consultation.

Dental bridges are a common and sensible option for many individuals who are missing one or more natural teeth. While typically not as expensive as implants, they are a long-lasting solution (sometimes decades or more) that looks and functions similar to a natural tooth. If you are considering getting a dental bridge and don’t have dental insurance, you might wonder how much a bridge might cost. The good news is that they can be quite affordable.

What are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a dental prosthesis that replaces a missing tooth. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth and can replace more than three missing teeth adjacent to each other. It’s fixed in place and thus can’t be removed without a dentist. The existing natural teeth or dental implants support bridges. Dental bridges are usually customized to look, function, and feel like natural teeth.

The Cost of Dental Bridges in Oakland, NJ

Before moving forward with dental implants, it’s important to understand the cost. The cost of dental bridges depends on the type and materials used, the location of the missing teeth, the number of missing teeth, and several other factors. Traditional or cantilever bridges typically cost about $2,500 – $5,000 without insurance. On the other hand, implant-supported bridges cost about $7,000 – $15,000.

Remember that a dental bridge is an investment in your oral health and your appearance. Having a smile you are proud of can help boost your confidence and even improve your career and social life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges

How Do You Care for Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are typically easy to care for and treated like natural teeth. Unlike dentures, you don’t have to remove them or soak them in unique solutions. To help extend the life of your bridge and maintain good dental hygiene, you should be sure to:

•         Brush at least twice daily
•         Floss well, especially under the bridge
•         Attend routine dental checkups
•         Have professional cleanings every six months
•         Avoid chewing hard, chewy, and crunchy foods, especially directly on the bridge

What are the Primary Drawbacks of Dental Bridges?

The primary downside of dental bridges is that they need support from the surrounding natural teeth. Unfortunately, this can significantly weaken the teeth unless an implant-supported bridge is used. You can also develop decay under the bridge, causing further complications. However, you can take steps to avoid this with proper oral hygiene and habits.

Dental Bridges in Oakland, NJ

At Oakland Dental Care, we offer several cosmetic dentistry solutions to enhance the appearance of your smile. If you’re interested in learning more about dental bridges, call 201-337-7733 to schedule an appointment today. We offer many affordable payment options to help make your dreams a reality. For your convenience, we accept cash, debit cards, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. We also offer our patients financing through CareCredit® to make dental care without insurance more manageable.

If you're thinking about replacing a missing tooth with a dental bridge, you probably have questions, including how long it will take to settle so you can get used to it. While the adjustment period varies for each bridge patient, most people find it doesn't take long to get used to having the bridge as a permanent part of their mouth.

How Long Does It Take to Adjust to a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is like new hardware in your mouth, so it will change how your mouth feels, especially when talking, drinking, and eating. This is normal and usually temporary. After getting a dental bridge, you may experience tooth sensitivity in the surrounding areas, soreness when chewing, and even a difference in your bite. While it might be discouraging, remember that any discomfort usually goes away within a few days.

On average, it takes about two weeks to adjust to a dental bridge and for it to feel natural and comfortable. However, the exact timeframe can vary based on the type of bridge, your individual situation, and how well you care for your teeth. If your bridge still feels uncomfortable or loose after two weeks, it's important to contact your dentist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges

Are there Different Types of Dental Bridges?

Yes, there are a few different types of dental bridges. Once you and your dentist have decided that a bridge is the best treatment option for your condition, they will determine which type of bridge will be best. Some of the common types of dental bridges include:

• Traditional bridges are the common option, and feature at least one false tooth supported by crowns on each side

• Maryland bridges function by fixing the pontic to only one side of the adjacent teeth, typically in the back. Since the adjacent teeth don’t need filling, this option is more conservative.

• Cantilever bridges are often an ideal option if you have healthy teeth on only one side of the tooth gap or missing tooth. It’s not ideal for areas of the mouth that face high stress or pressure, such as the back molars.

Do Dental Bridges Require Any Special Care?

Your dentist will likely recommend eating only soft foods until the mouth recovers from any initial sensitivity from having your bridge placed. Then, you will need to take your oral hygiene routine seriously to help maximize the lifespan of your bridge. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice per day. Be sure to floss your natural teeth and floss under your bridge. Keep regular dental exams and cleaning appointments. With proper care, a dental bridge may last a decade or more on average.

Learn More About Dental Bridges from Oakland Dental Care

If you are missing a tooth and want to find out if a dental bridge is the answer to the smile you want, contact the dental professionals at Oakland Dental Care today. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you understand your options. Call 201-337-7733 today to schedule your appointment.

If you’re missing teeth, one option to fill the gap may be a dental bridge. A dental bridge is an artificial tooth or teeth that is held in place by attaching to the teeth (or crowns) next to the gap. Indeed, a dental bridge literally bridges the gap you have from a missing tooth. Candidates for dental bridges will need to have relatively healthy gums, good jaw bone density (if opting for an implant supported bridge), strong teeth that are not in a state of decay, and relatively good health overall. However, only your dentist can confirm if a dental bridge is the best restorative dentistry procedure for your needs.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are four main types of dental bridges. Oakland Dental Care will help you to determine the type best suited for you. 

Traditional Bridge

As its name implies, a traditional bridge is the most common type of bridge. A traditional bridge will affix to crowns on either side of the gap. 

Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is only supported on one side of the gap. This type of bridge is not for everyone, as it is not as secure as a traditional bridge.

Maryland Bridge

A Maryland bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. However instead of attaching to crowns on either side of the gap, it is attached to the natural teeth.

Implant Supported Bridge

This type of bridge is particularly useful if multiple, consecutive teeth are missing. In this case, a dental implant can be used to support one end of the bridge. Implant supported bridges tend to be very secure.

What To Expect During The Procedure

The full procedure for a dental bridge may take several appointments, depending upon the type of bridge you are getting. During the first appointment, expect your dentist to numb the area around the teeth or crowns (known as abutment teeth) that will be used to secure the bridge. Then these teeth will be filed into the proper shape to be able to support your bridge. An impression or digital scan of your teeth will be taken to be sent to the lab to have your bridge made. You will be given a temporary bridge in the meantime, to protect the teeth that have been filed.

Once your bridge has come in, you’ll return to have the permanent bridge affixed. After the removal of your temporary bridge, your teeth may need to be cleaned. Then your bridge will be cemented in and adjusted for proper fit. You will then be scheduled for a follow-up appointment to make sure that the bridge is comfortable.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

In addition to improving the appearance of your smile, a dental bridge can provide many other benefits.

• Improved self-confidence
• Reduced pressure on your teeth
• Better alignment of teeth
• Less drooping in your cheeks or face
• Easier chewing and speaking

Best Dental Treatment for Missing Teeth in Oakland, NJ

At Oakland Dental, we are here to help you achieve a gorgeous smile. Our dental practice provides complete cosmetic and restorative dentistry in addition to general dentistry for all ages. If you’re missing one or more teeth, schedule a consultation today to learn more about dental bridges and dental implants. We are here to help you create the smile you’ve always wanted. Call 201-337-7733 or request an appointment online.