Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or implants. The bridge 'bridges' the gap left by missing teeth, restoring your ability to chew properly, preventing remaining teeth from drifting, and maintaining your facial structure.
Typical range: $2,000–$5,000 3-unit bridge
What to expect
Getting a traditional bridge takes 2–3 visits. First visit: the adjacent anchor teeth are prepared (shaped) to receive crowns, impressions are taken, and a temporary bridge is placed. Second visit (1–2 weeks later): the custom bridge is checked for fit and cemented permanently. Implant-supported bridges follow the implant timeline (3–6 months healing before bridge placement). Bridges function like natural teeth and require careful flossing underneath using threaders or water flossers.
What it typically costs
National range: $2,000–$5,000 3-unit bridge. 3-unit (replaces one tooth): $2,000–$5,000. Implant bridge: $5,000–$15,000. Insurance covers ~50%.
See the full bridge placementcost guide →Common questions about bridge placement
How much does a dental bridge cost?
Traditional bridges cost $2,000–$5,000 for a 3-unit bridge (replacing one tooth, anchored by two crowns). Implant-supported bridges cost more: $5,000–$15,000 for a 3-unit implant bridge. Most dental insurance covers 50% of bridge work up to the annual maximum.
How long do bridges last?
With proper care, dental bridges last 10–15 years on average. Implant-supported bridges can last 20+ years. Longevity depends on the health of the anchor teeth (or implants), your oral hygiene, and regular professional maintenance.
Bridge vs. implant — which should I choose?
Bridges are faster (weeks vs. months for implants) and cost less initially. But they require altering healthy adjacent teeth and don't prevent jawbone loss. Implants preserve bone, don't affect neighboring teeth, and last longer. For a single missing tooth with healthy adjacent teeth, an implant is often the better long-term investment.
Can a bridge be removed and recemented?
Bridges are meant to be permanent. If a bridge becomes loose due to decay under the crowns or cement failure, a dentist may be able to remove and recement it if the underlying teeth are healthy. However, if decay has compromised the anchor teeth, a new bridge (or alternative restoration) is needed.
Dental Bridges by city
Local guides show pricing context, insurance patterns, and verified practices that handle bridge placement.
Los Angeles, CA
Bridge Placement in Los Angeles: what to expect, costs, and matching.
New York City, NY
Bridge Placement in New York City: what to expect, costs, and matching.
San Francisco, CA
Bridge Placement in San Francisco: what to expect, costs, and matching.
Abbotsford, WI
Bridge Placement in Abbotsford: what to expect, costs, and matching.
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD
Bridge Placement in Aberdeen Proving Ground: what to expect, costs, and matching.
Aberdeen Township, NJ
Bridge Placement in Aberdeen Township: what to expect, costs, and matching.
Other procedure guides
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