The loss of a baby tooth is an important milestone for your child, and it’s a normal part of growth and development. Losing an adult (or permanent) tooth, on the other hand, is cause for concern.
If your child loses a permanent tooth and the tooth can’t be saved (more on that here), you’ll need to see a dentist to replace it. Tooth bridges are a common treatment for missing teeth, but if your child needs one, it’s likely you have some questions. Let’s start with one you’re sure to have – what’s the cost?
Like most dental procedures, the cost of a bridge varies. Here’s what you need to know:
The cost of a bridge can vary from the state and city you live in, as well as the dentist you go to. The average cost is between $700 and $1,500 per tooth. Your insurance provider may cover part of the cost, but you should check with them ahead of time to find out how much they’ll cover and what forms you’ll need to submit.
Our Kool Smiles Kids Club partner dentists are committed to providing affordable dental care for children, adolescents, and teens. They’ll work with you to find a solution that suits your needs, and they accept:
A dental bridge is exactly what it sounds like – an artificial tooth that bridges a gap.
The dentist will file the adjacent teeth and then make a mold of them. Then, the mold is used to create the bridge – a piece that’s custom-fitted with a crown (which acts as an anchor) for each adjacent tooth and a tooth-like section in the middle. Finally, the bridge is placed.
Partial dentures are another option for missing teeth. While a bridge anchors onto the adjacent teeth, dentures stick to the gums. Essentially, dentures are temporary and removable, while bridges are fixed, and, with proper care, typically stay in place for roughly ten years.
When there’s a gap left by a lost tooth, the remaining teeth have too much space to move and can become unstable. If your child loses a permanent tooth, it’s essential they see a dentist as soon as possible.
Our Kool Smiles Kids Club partner dentists aim to provide high-quality dental care to suit every budget and are happy to discuss the cost of a tooth bridge with you, regardless of whether or not you have dental insurance.