Dental Bridge Procedure: Types, Costs & Care

When a missing tooth affects your confidence, your bite, or your ability to speak and chew, a dental bridge can restore both function and aesthetics. But what is a dental bridge, how does the procedure work, and what should you expect in terms of cost and care?

This detailed guide explains the dental bridge procedure, the different types of dental bridges, the average cost with and without insurance, and how to care for your new restoration.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a restorative dental treatment used to replace one or more missing teeth. It literally “bridges” the gap between healthy teeth or implants, restoring your smile and preventing long-term complications like shifting teeth, bite issues, or jawbone deterioration.

Bridges are made from durable materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia—designed to match the natural color and shape of your teeth.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are several types of dental bridges, each designed for different needs:

1. Traditional Dental Bridge

   • The most common type.

   • Uses crowns on healthy teeth (abutments) to hold the replacement tooth in place.

     
     

2. Cantilever Bridge

   • Anchored on only one side of the gap.

   • Best suited for areas under less biting pressure, like the front teeth.

     
     

3. Maryland Bonded Bridge

   • Uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of surrounding teeth.

   • A more conservative option since it doesn’t require reshaping adjacent teeth.

     
     

4. Implant-Supported Bridge

   • Supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth.

   • Strongest and longest-lasting option, ideal for multiple missing teeth.

     
     

Dental Bridge Procedure: Step by Step

Here’s what you can expect during the dental bridge procedure:

1. Consultation & Examination

   • Your dentist evaluates your oral health, takes X-rays or CT scans, and discusses the best bridge type for your needs.

     
     

2. Tooth Preparation

   • For traditional bridges, surrounding teeth are reshaped to make room for crowns.

   • Digital impressions may be taken for precise fitting.

     
     

3. Temporary Bridge

   • A temporary bridge is placed while your permanent one is being crafted in the dental lab.

     
     

4. Permanent Bridge Placement

   • The custom bridge is checked for fit, adjusted, and permanently cemented.

With advanced technology and in-house dental labs like at Coco Dental Care, this process is faster, often completed within just a few days.

Dental Bridge Cost

The cost of a dental bridge can vary based on type, materials, and complexity. On average:

• Dental bridge cost without insurance: $2,000 – $5,000 per bridge.

• Dental bridge cost with insurance: Many plans cover 40–50% of restorative procedures.

At Coco Dental Care in Costa Rica, patients often save 50–70% compared to U.S. and Canadian clinics, while still receiving world-class treatment with the latest technology.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Proper care ensures the longevity of your dental bridge. Follow these tips:

• Brush & Floss Daily: Use floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean under the bridge.

• Maintain Regular Dental Visits: Professional cleanings and checkups help prevent decay around supporting teeth.

• Avoid Excessive Pressure: Limit very hard or sticky foods that can stress the bridge.

• Stay Consistent with Oral Hygiene: Good habits protect both your bridge and natural teeth.

  
  

With proper care, most bridges last 10–15 years or more.

Dental Bridges at Coco Dental Care, Costa Rica

At Coco Dental Care in Guanacaste, we combine precision dentistry with personalized care to restore your smile beautifully and effectively. Our team uses digital X-rays, 3D CT scans, and an in-house dental lab to design and place dental bridges with exceptional accuracy.

Whether you need a single-tooth bridge or a complex implant-supported solution, our experienced specialists ensure a comfortable procedure and long-lasting results—at a fraction of the cost back home.

Restore Your Smile with Confidence

Missing teeth don’t just affect how you look—they impact how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. A dental bridge is a reliable solution that restores your smile and your confidence.

📞 Call us today at +1 (305) 420-6471 or WhatsApp +(506) 8389-5278 to schedule your consultation. 

👉 Your beautiful smile deserves expert care—start your journey with Coco Dental Care in Costa Rica.