A dental bridge is a fixed way to replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. Also called a tooth bridge, it restores your ability to chew and smile and keeps the surrounding teeth from shifting. This guide covers the types of dental bridges, the materials, the dental bridge procedure, the cost, and how a bridge compares to a dental implant.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge literally bridges the gap left by one or more missing teeth. The replacement tooth in the middle is called a pontic; it is held in place by abutment teeth — the natural teeth on both sides of the gap (or dental implants), which are usually fitted with dental crowns. In other words, dental bridges replace missing teeth by using the healthy teeth on either side for support. Unlike a removable denture or partial denture, a bridge is a permanent bridge that stays fixed in your mouth. It is a common option for replacing a missing tooth or teeth, from a front tooth to a molar.
Types of dental bridges
There are four main types of dental bridges, and the right bridge type depends on where the gap is, how many teeth are missing, and the condition of the neighboring teeth. Knowing the different types of dental bridges helps you and your dentist choose.
Traditional bridge
A traditional dental bridge is the most common type of bridge: the abutment teeth on both sides of the gap are crowned, and the pontic sits between them. Strong and reliable, it works well for molars that take heavy chewing forces.
Cantilever bridge
A cantilever bridge is supported by an abutment tooth on only one side of the gap. It is used when there is a natural tooth on just one side, but it puts more stress on that tooth.
Maryland (resin-bonded) bridge
A Maryland dental bridge (also called a resin-bonded bridge) uses thin wings bonded to the backs of the neighboring teeth instead of full crowns, so little natural tooth structure is removed. It is a conservative, esthetic choice, especially for a front tooth.
Implant-supported bridge
An implant-supported bridge is anchored by dental implants rather than natural teeth — ideal when several teeth are missing or when you want to avoid crowning healthy adjacent teeth.
Dental bridge materials
Bridges are typically made from porcelain fused to metal, all-ceramic/porcelain, or zirconia. All-ceramic and zirconia bridges are the most natural-looking — a good dental bridge material for the visible zone — while porcelain-fused-to-metal is very durable.
What is a dental bridge used for?
A bridge closes the gap from one or more lost teeth — a molar bridge at the back or a front tooth bridge in the smile zone. Beyond restoring chewing and appearance, it stops the teeth from shifting into the gap and keeps your bite stable. You need healthy abutment teeth and gums to support it.
The dental bridge procedure
Getting a bridge usually takes two visits. First, the dentist prepares the abutment teeth by shaping them for crowns and takes an impression; a temporary bridge protects the teeth while your custom bridge is made in a lab. At the second visit, the finished bridge is checked for fit and bite and then cemented into place. Most people adjust to a new bridge quickly.
Dental bridge vs. dental implant
Both replace missing teeth with a fixed result. A dental bridge is usually faster and less expensive and makes sense when the adjacent teeth would benefit from crowns anyway. A dental implant replaces the tooth root, preserves the jawbone, and leaves the neighboring natural teeth untouched — but it takes longer and costs more. Which is right depends on your teeth, bone, and budget; an experienced implant dentist can help you decide. Use our expert search to find a certified implantologist near you.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
Dental bridge cost depends on the number of teeth, the material, and whether implants are involved. A traditional single-tooth bridge is the most affordable, while implant-supported bridges cost more. In the US, dental insurance often covers part of the cost — check your plan before treatment, and ask your dentist for a written estimate.
Lifespan and care
With good care, a dental bridge often lasts 10 to 15 years or more. The key is dental care and oral health around the bridge: brush twice a day, and clean under the pontic daily with floss threaders or interdental brushes so the abutment teeth stay free of decay. Good dental health habits and regular checkups protect your investment; a well-maintained bridge may last well beyond a decade, while the abutment teeth and cement hold the bridge in place.
Frequently asked questions about dental bridges
How much should a dental bridge cost?
It depends on the type, material, and number of teeth: a traditional single-tooth bridge is the least expensive, while implant-supported bridges cost the most. Dental insurance often covers part of it in the US. Ask your dentist for a written estimate and check your coverage before you start.
What is the downside of having a dental bridge?
A traditional bridge requires shaping the healthy neighboring teeth for crowns, which removes some natural tooth structure. Bridges also don't replace the tooth root, so the bone under the pontic can shrink over time, and the area needs careful daily cleaning to prevent decay on the abutment teeth.
What does a one-tooth bridge cost?
A single-tooth (three-unit) bridge is the most common and most affordable type, but the exact price varies with the material and your region, and whether insurance applies. Your dentist's written treatment plan will give you an accurate figure for your case.
How painful is getting a dental bridge?
Getting a bridge is generally not painful — the abutment teeth are numbed with local anesthesia while they are prepared. Some mild sensitivity or soreness afterward is normal and settles within a few days as you get used to the new bridge.
Certified implantologists from our network
Every practice in our network is admitted only after meeting the quality criteria of Leading Implant Centers.
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Dr. Mahsuni Kaya
Zahnwelt Neuss, Praxis Dr. Mahsuni Kaya
Neuss, Germany
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Dr. Arturo Llobell
Clinica Llobell Cortell
Valencia, Spain
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Dr. M.Sc. Moritz Merwart zum Kopieren
Dr. Moritz Merwart & Colleagues - Dentistry and Implantology
Salzburg, Austria
Find an implantologist near you
Our Scientific & Advisory Board developed these admission criteria and takes part in reviewing new member practices. Quality criteria · Scientific & Advisory Board
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