If you want to smile, talk clearly, and eat, you might need a bridge or denture. These prosthetic devices will improve your oral health too. For these reasons, the better the quality of bridges you can afford, the less likely you’ll need to replace them and the easier they will be to maintain.
Bridges aren’t the same for every patient, so the price varies. It’s not that some dentists overcharge; it’s just that getting impressions and perfecting a bridge can take a long time.
To help you make the right decision when deciding on bridges, here is an overview of factors that affect pricing.
How a Denture Works
A denture replaces your natural teeth with a prosthetic device–a set of artificial teeth attached to a base and a framework.
A metal or plastic base houses artificial teeth used to replace natural teeth that have been damaged or lost. There are several types of bridges, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. The cost and quality of bridges depend on the type, the materials, and the prices charged by the dental clinic.
Factors Affecting Pricing
Costs associated with bridges can be high. Several factors affect the price of a dental prosthesis, including the patient’s health insurance plan and the type of denture.
You can get cheaper options if you don’t want to spend too much. Every option offers a different level of comfort, durability, and aesthetic appeal. It’s up to you to figure out what’s best for you and your budget.
A ballpark range is between $3,500 and $10,000, with the average cost of a full set of teeth coming in at $1,800.
Your 3 Primary Options
Denture options can be complicated because there are so many factors to consider. More expensive options will last longer, fit more comfortably, and look more natural. Comparatively, lower-quality options may not last as long, cost less, and may not be as comfortable or durable.
Dentures come in a variety of types, and here are three classifications you should understand before choosing the type you want.
1. Your lowest-priced options: Cold-cured bridges, made of low-quality materials that resemble real teeth, cost $300 to $500 a plate, while a set of upper and lower bridges costs between $600 to $1,000.
2. Your moderately priced options: Bridges made of better-quality materials, which look more natural and last longer than cold-cured, low-cost bridges, cost between $500 and $1,500 a plate, and a set of upper and lower bridges can cost between $1,000 and $3,500.
3. Your highest priced options: The most expensive heat-cured bridges, which are completely custom-made to look like natural teeth, cost between $2,000 to $4,000 per plate, while an upper and lower bridge set can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $8,000.
Choosing the Right Denture Type
Dentures can be divided into two categories: fixed or removable.
Fixed bridges are plastic or metal bridges cemented to the jawbone, while removable bridges can be made from a variety of materials, such as porcelain, acrylic, or even natural teeth.
The type of denture you choose is a matter of personal preference. Also, ask your dentist what they recommend based on their evaluation of your oral health.
7 Factors Affecting Denture Costs
1. The cost of a denture with or without insurance: You may pay between $3,500 and $4,500, depending on your insurance policy. If you don’t have insurance, it can cost you from $6,000 to $9,000.
2. The cost of a partial denture with or without insurance:: As an affordable alternative to full bridges, partial bridges are generally more comfortable. These are individual teeth attached to a plastic base. They can be used either short- or long-term, but they require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure proper hygiene. With insurance, acrylic partial sets can range from $325 to $550, cast metal partial ones from $468 to $988, and flexible partial ones from $538 to $744. Without insurance, an acrylic partial set can cost from $650 to $1,110, cast metal partial ones from $935 to $1,975, and flexible partial ones from $1,075 to $1,487.
3. The cost of a denture with extractions: Bridges are permanent replacements for missing teeth. An average set of high-quality bridges costs about $4,000. You can expect to pay $7,500 or more for regular extractions.
4. The cost of snap-in bridges:: The cost of snap-in bridges can range from $1,000 to $10,000. Several factors influence the cost of implants, including the number of implants, the materials used, and the dental clinic’s charges.
5. The cost of a denture for seniors:: Medicare does not cover the cost of bridges anymore for people aged 65 and older.
6. The cost of a permanent denture: Due to the surgery required and the amount of time and effort it takes your dentist to plan and create your prosthetic, permanent bridges cost approximately $6,000 to $8,000 per arch. Keep in mind that pricing is subject to considerable variation–so prices may vary from one dentist to another.
7. The cost of an implant-supported denture: Bridges that are supported by plants are the best option because they are usually more stable and last longer. Prices depend on the type of implant and the material used. Typically, these range from $2,500 to $4,500.
Choosing a Dentist
If you are considering getting a denture, it is imperative to find a dentist who can work with your budget and provide quality services. Researching the right dentist is not always easy, but it is essential for your oral health. If you make an appointment in advance with a dentist on DenTEL, a dental directory, they may offer discounts or free consultations.
Your age, your insurance coverage, and your financial situation all play a role in whether you get a dental implant or a denture. One thing to remember is that porcelain enamel teeth are the most expensive and durable, while acrylic resin teeth are comparatively more affordable but offer less durability.
