Dental Bridges: Types, Costs and What to Expect

Dental Bridges: Types, Costs and What to Expect

Missing a tooth—or several teeth—affects more than your appearance. It changes the way you eat, the way you speak, and over time it can cause your remaining teeth to shift out of position. A dental bridge is one of the most established and effective ways to replace missing teeth, and it’s a treatment we carry out regularly at Kiss Dental.

Whether you’ve recently lost a tooth or you’ve been living with a gap for years, this guide will help you understand how dental bridges work, what types are available, what they cost, and what the treatment process involves.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic that literally bridges the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more false teeth (called pontics) held in place by crowns attached to the teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth are called abutments.

Unlike dentures, a bridge is permanently cemented in place—you don’t take it out to clean it. This makes bridges feel and function much more like your natural teeth. You eat, speak, and smile as normal, and most people won’t be able to tell you have one.

Types of Dental Bridge

There are several types of dental bridge, and the right one for you depends on where the gap is, how many teeth are missing, and the condition of your surrounding teeth.

Traditional Fixed Bridge

This is the most common type. A pontic (false tooth) is held in place by dental crowns cemented onto the teeth on either side of the gap. Traditional bridges are strong, durable, and work well for gaps in any part of the mouth. The abutment teeth need to be filed down to accommodate the crowns, which is something your dentist will discuss with you before treatment.

Traditional bridges can replace one to three consecutive missing teeth. They’re made from porcelain, zirconia, or a combination of metal and porcelain, depending on the location and your preference.

Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but it’s supported by a crown on only one side of the gap rather than both. This is useful when there’s only one natural tooth next to the missing space—for example, at the back of the mouth where there’s no tooth behind the gap.

Because the bridge is anchored on one side only, it’s best suited for areas that don’t bear heavy chewing forces. Your dentist will advise whether a cantilever bridge is appropriate for your situation.

Maryland Bridge (Resin-Bonded Bridge)

A Maryland bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework that’s bonded to the back of the teeth on either side of the gap, rather than requiring full crowns. This means less tooth preparation is needed—your natural teeth stay largely intact.

Maryland bridges are most commonly used for front teeth where the biting forces are lower. They’re a more conservative option and work particularly well for younger patients or those who want to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible.

Implant-Supported Bridge

Rather than relying on natural teeth for support, an implant-supported bridge is anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. This is the strongest and most long-lasting option, and it doesn’t require any preparation of your natural teeth.

Implant-supported bridges are ideal when you’re missing three or more consecutive teeth, or when the adjacent teeth aren’t strong enough to support a traditional bridge. The treatment takes longer because the implants need time to fuse with the bone, but the results are excellent.

How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?

The cost of a dental bridge depends on the type, the number of teeth being replaced, and the materials used. Here’s what you can expect at Kiss Dental:

Traditional and Cantilever Bridges

A traditional three-unit bridge (two crowns plus one pontic) typically costs between £1,200 and £2,700, depending on materials:

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): £400–£600 per unit (£1,200–£1,800 for a three-unit bridge)
• All-ceramic: £500–£900 per unit (£1,500–£2,700 for a three-unit bridge)
• Zirconia: £600–£1,000 per unit (£1,800–£3,000 for a three-unit bridge)

The number of units in your bridge depends on how many teeth are missing and how many abutment teeth are needed for support.

Maryland Bridges

Maryland bridges are generally less expensive than traditional bridges because they require less tooth preparation. You can expect to pay between £800 and £1,500 for a single-tooth Maryland bridge.

Implant-Supported Bridges

These are a larger investment because they include the cost of the implants themselves plus the bridge. A two-implant bridge replacing three teeth typically costs between £4,000 and £8,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the materials chosen.

For full pricing details, visit our fees page. We also offer flexible finance options including interest-free plans through Klarna and PayPal Credit, so you can spread the cost over 3–12 months.

Dental Bridges vs Other Options

A bridge isn’t the only way to replace missing teeth. Here’s how it compares to the alternatives:

Bridges vs Dental Implants

Dental implants are standalone replacements that don’t affect neighbouring teeth. A single implant costs £2,000–£3,000 at Kiss Dental and can last a lifetime with proper care. Bridges are typically less expensive upfront and don’t require surgery, but they do involve preparing adjacent teeth. If those teeth are already crowned or filled, a bridge can be a practical choice. If they’re healthy, an implant might be the better long-term investment.

Bridges vs Dentures

Dentures are removable, which some patients find inconvenient. They can also feel less secure when eating or speaking. Bridges are fixed, stable, and feel more natural. However, dentures are usually less expensive—full dentures cost £500–£1,500, whilst partial dentures cost £300–£800. If you’re missing many teeth across an arch, dentures may be the more practical option.

Bridges vs Doing Nothing

Leaving a gap might seem like the easy option, especially if it’s not visible when you smile. But missing teeth cause real problems over time. Your remaining teeth drift into the space, your bite changes, you lose bone in the jaw, and your risk of further tooth loss increases. Replacing missing teeth sooner rather than later prevents these complications and is almost always more cost-effective in the long run.

The Treatment Process

Getting a dental bridge usually takes two to three appointments over a few weeks. Here’s what to expect:

Appointment One: Consultation and Preparation

Your dentist will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and discuss which type of bridge is best for your situation. If you decide to go ahead, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a thin layer of enamel to make room for the crowns. We’ll take precise impressions of your teeth—either with traditional moulds or digital scanning—and fit a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth while your permanent bridge is being made.

Between Appointments

Your impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians craft your bridge to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth. This usually takes 10–14 days. During this time, your temporary bridge keeps everything in place and looking presentable.

Appointment Two: Fitting

When your permanent bridge is ready, we’ll remove the temporary one and check the fit, bite, and colour of the new bridge. We may make minor adjustments to ensure everything feels comfortable and natural. Once you’re happy, the bridge is permanently cemented in place.

Appointment Three (If Needed): Review

Some patients benefit from a follow-up appointment a week or two after fitting to check the bite has settled and everything feels right. This is particularly common with larger bridges.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

A dental bridge can last 10–15 years or longer with proper care. Here’s how to look after yours:

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying particular attention to where the bridge meets your gums
• Use a floss threader or interdental brush to clean underneath the pontic—this is where food and bacteria can collect
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce plaque buildup
• Avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage or dislodge the bridge
• Visit us for regular check-ups so we can monitor the bridge and the health of the supporting teeth

The most common reason bridges fail early is gum disease or decay in the abutment teeth. Keeping your gums healthy and maintaining good oral hygiene is the best way to protect your investment.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Dental Bridge?

Most people with one or more missing teeth are candidates for a bridge. You’ll need:

• Healthy abutment teeth: The teeth supporting the bridge need to be strong enough to bear the additional load. If they’re weakened by decay or have large fillings, your dentist might recommend implants instead.
• Good gum health: Gum disease needs to be treated before a bridge is placed. Healthy gums provide the foundation for long-lasting results.
• Adequate bone: For implant-supported bridges, you need sufficient jawbone to anchor the implants. If bone loss has occurred, a bone graft might be necessary first.

During your consultation, Dr Kailesh Solanki or Dr Khushal Morar will assess your teeth and gums and recommend the best option for your situation. If a bridge isn’t the right fit, we’ll discuss alternatives like implants or dentures.

Dental Bridges at Kiss Dental

We’ve fitted thousands of dental bridges across our practices in Manchester City Centre, Altrincham, Flixton, Knutsford, Alderley Edge, Liverpool, Bury, and Bramhall. Our team has the experience and skill to match your bridge perfectly to your natural teeth—both in function and appearance.

We use high-quality materials and work with trusted dental laboratories to ensure every bridge we fit meets our exacting standards. Whether you need a simple three-unit bridge or a more complex implant-supported restoration, we’ll guide you through every step of the process.

If you’re living with a missing tooth—or several—don’t put off treatment. The sooner you replace missing teeth, the better the outcome for your oral health. Contact us today to book a consultation, or call us on 0161 524 1804.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does getting a dental bridge hurt?

No. We use local anaesthetic during tooth preparation, so you won’t feel pain. You might experience some mild sensitivity for a few days after each appointment, but this settles quickly. If you’re anxious about the procedure, we offer sedation options to help you feel more relaxed.

How long does a dental bridge last?

With proper care, a dental bridge typically lasts 10–15 years, and many last even longer. The longevity depends on the materials used, your oral hygiene habits, and the health of the supporting teeth. Regular check-ups help us catch any issues early.

Can a dental bridge fall out?

It’s uncommon, but a bridge can become loose if the cement weakens or if the supporting teeth develop decay. If your bridge feels loose or moves when you eat, contact us straight away—we can usually re-cement it or address the underlying issue before it becomes a bigger problem.

Will a dental bridge look natural?

Yes. Modern materials like all-ceramic and zirconia are carefully colour-matched to your existing teeth. We work closely with our dental laboratory to ensure the shape, size, and shade of your bridge blends seamlessly with your smile. Most people won’t know it’s there.

Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?

Once your bridge is fitted and you’ve adjusted to it—usually within a week or two—you can eat most foods normally. We recommend avoiding very hard foods like toffee or ice, and being careful with things like crusty bread or corn on the cob for the first few weeks.

How do I clean under a dental bridge?

You can’t floss between the teeth of a bridge in the usual way because they’re connected. Instead, use a floss threader to pass dental floss underneath the pontic, or use an interdental brush. Superfloss—which has a stiff end you can thread under the bridge—also works well. Your dentist or hygienist will show you the best technique during your appointment.

Is a dental bridge better than a dental implant?

Neither is universally better—it depends on your individual situation. Implants are standalone and don’t affect neighbouring teeth, but they require surgery and a longer treatment time. Bridges are quicker, less invasive, and often less expensive. Your dentist will help you weigh up the pros and cons based on your specific needs, budget, and oral health.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment outcomes vary depending on individual circumstances, oral health, and medical history. Always consult with a qualified dentist before making decisions about dental treatment. For personalised advice, contact Kiss Dental on 0161 524 1804 to arrange a consultation with Dr Kailesh Solanki or Dr Khushal Morar.