Posted September 02, 2025 in Dental Bridge
If you’re missing one or more teeth, you’ve probably noticed it affects more than just your appearance. Eating certain foods becomes tricky, your speech may feel a little off, and you might even catch yourself smiling less or feeling less confident than before. When you’re looking for a solution that can restore both the appearance and function of your teeth, one of your options is dental bridges. But before you make a decision, one of the first questions many prospective patients ask is: How much will dental bridges cost? In this blog, we’ll explore some of the factors that contribute to the cost of dental bridges so you can reclaim your smile without breaking the bank.
5 Min Read:
Table of Contents
- What Are Dental Bridges?
- Why Is It Important That I Replace Missing Teeth?
- What Factors Influence the Cost of Dental Bridges?
- How Does the Cost of Dental Bridges Compare to Other Tooth Restoration Options?
- Does Dental Insurance Cover Bridges?
- Discover Dental Bridge Options in Las Cruces
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is known as a restoration, which means its purpose is to replace missing teeth to restore their function and appearance. It’s not just a catchy name: dental bridges are a custom-made restoration designed to literally “bridge” the gap left by missing teeth. Depending on your needs, they’re anchored to healthy teeth or dental implants on each side of the empty space. A dental bridge is made up of the following elements:
Abutment
The abutment is the tooth (or implant) that supports the dental bridge. Your dentist may need to reshape the abutment or place a crown over it to ensure that the bridge is anchored securely. The condition of your abutment teeth will impact the complexity—and therefore the price—of your dental bridge procedure.
Pontics
The pontic is the false tooth (or teeth) that fills in the spot where your natural tooth is missing. Pontics are specifically designed to match the size, shape, and color of your surrounding teeth, and come in materials like porcelain and zirconia, which can affect the final cost.
Dental Crowns
Crowns may be placed over the abutment teeth to provide a more stable foundation for your dental bridge. They not only provide stability and strength for the supporting teeth but can also improve their appearance. The type of dental crown material, which ranges from metal to ceramic, will play a role in the price.
Why Is It Important That I Replace Missing Teeth?
Beyond the cosmetic benefits, replacing missing teeth is vital for maintaining the structure and integrity of your mouth, as well as your oral health. When there’s even one empty space, the surrounding teeth can move out of alignment, eventually causing bite issues and uneven wear, and making it difficult to brush and floss effectively. Missing teeth also cause bone loss in your jawbone, which can make it harder to chew and speak comfortably, and even change your face shape over time. A dental bridge helps keep your bite aligned correctly, keeps your facial structure intact, and restores full function to your mouth.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Dental Bridges?
The price of a dental bridge can vary widely depending on several factors:
Type of Bridge
Traditional dental bridges are typically less expensive than implant-supported ones. Other types of bridges (like Cantilever or Maryland bridges) may have different pricing according to the materials and technique used.
Number of Teeth Replaced
More missing teeth means more pontics and possibly more abutments, increasing the time spent by your dentist and the cost of materials.
Material Choice
The type of material used for your dental bridge will figure into your total cost, as each material has a different price point.
Condition of Surrounding Teeth
If your abutment or supporting teeth need preparatory work, such as root canals or crowns, before placing the bridge, the cost of your dental bridge will be higher.
Geographic Location
Dental costs, whether for bridges or other procedures, can vary significantly depending on the city and region.
Dentist’s Expertise
A highly skilled and experienced dentist may charge more, but the quality and longevity of a dental bridge placed by a professional with experience and training are worth the investment.
How Does the Cost of Dental Bridges Compare to Other Tooth Restoration Options?
When considering whether a dental bridge is right for you, it’s worth comparing it to other common tooth replacement options before making your final decision. Some of your options include:
Dentures
Dentures are typically the least expensive option; however, they may not offer the same comfort, stability, or natural appearance as a dental bridge. They also require more ongoing maintenance and may need to be replaced every 5–7 years.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are considered the gold standard when it comes to replacing lost teeth because they replace the root as well as the visible tooth. But implants come with a higher price tag than dental bridges and require multiple appointments over several months. Bridges are a less invasive procedure and are usually completed in just a few visits, making them more affordable upfront.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Bridges?
The good news is that many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of dental bridges, especially if the procedure is deemed medically necessary to restore the function of your mouth. You should always contact your insurance provider before starting your dental bridge procedure, so that you know exactly what is required for coverage and how much of the cost is covered by insurance.
If you don’t have dental insurance, many offices (including Gentle Care Dentistry) offer financing plans or payment options to help make the cost of your treatment more manageable.
Discover Dental Bridge Options in Las Cruces, NM
While the cost of a dental bridge may seem high, it’s important to remember that replacing missing teeth is about more than just appearances—it’s also an investment in your long-term oral health, comfort, and confidence. If you’re considering a dental bridge, it’s time to schedule a consultation with the expert dentists at Gentle Care Dentistry. They’ll assess your needs, outline your treatment options, and give you a personalized cost estimate so you’ll know exactly what to expect before you start your journey toward a healthier, more beautiful smile. To make an appointment, call us today at (575) 524-3722 or complete our online contact form.