2026 dental bridge cost guide
How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost in 2026?
A standard three-unit dental bridge — one false tooth anchored to two crowned neighbors — typically costs $2,000–$5,000. A more conservative Maryland bridge runs $1,500–$2,500, while an implant-supported bridge costs $5,000–$15,000. Insurance often covers about 50% of a traditional bridge.
Local pricing
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Browse locations →Key takeaways
- A traditional 3-unit bridge costs $2,000–$5,000; bridges are priced per unit ($700–$1,500 each)
- A Maryland bridge ($1,500–$2,500) is the most affordable option for a single front tooth
- An implant-supported bridge ($5,000–$15,000) costs more upfront but doesn't grind down healthy teeth and lasts longer
- Most insurance covers a bridge at ~50% as a major restorative procedure, up to the annual maximum
- A traditional bridge lasts 10–15 years; implant bridges can last 20+ years
- Compared to a single implant ($3,000–$6,000), a 3-unit bridge is cheaper upfront but requires crowning two healthy teeth
Dental bridge cost by type
A "unit" is one crown or false tooth. A bridge replacing one missing tooth uses three units (two anchors plus the replacement), so the total scales with how many teeth are involved.
Types of dental bridges
Traditional bridge
The most common type. The two teeth on either side of the gap are crowned, and a false tooth (pontic) is fused between them. Strong and well-proven. Cost: $2,000–$5,000 for three units. Downside: it requires reshaping two healthy teeth.
Cantilever bridge
Used when there's only one natural tooth next to the gap. The pontic is anchored on a single side. Cost: $2,000–$4,500. Less common because it puts more stress on the one anchor tooth.
Maryland bridge
A conservative option that bonds the false tooth to the backs of the neighbors with metal or porcelain "wings" — no crowns, minimal drilling. Cost: $1,500–$2,500. Best for front teeth; the bond can loosen under heavy bite force.
Implant-supported bridge
Two or more dental implants hold the bridge instead of crowned teeth. Cost: $5,000–$15,000. It protects the neighboring teeth, prevents bone loss, and lasts the longest — the premium option for multiple missing teeth.
Bridge vs implant: which costs less?
| Factor | Traditional bridge | Single implant |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | $2,000–$5,000 | $3,000–$6,000 |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years | 20+ years (often lifetime) |
| Affects neighbor teeth? | Yes — two are crowned | No |
| Prevents bone loss? | No | Yes |
| Treatment time | 2–3 weeks | 3–6 months |
| Insurance coverage | Often ~50% | Varies; sometimes excluded |
A bridge is usually cheaper and faster upfront, but because it can need replacing every 10–15 years and involves crowning healthy teeth, an implant often costs less over a lifetime. See our full bridge vs implant cost comparison.
Does insurance cover a dental bridge?
Typically about 50%
Most PPO dental plans cover a traditional or Maryland bridge as a major restorative procedure at roughly 50%, after the deductible and within the annual maximum (often $1,000–$2,000). Because a bridge can exceed the annual cap, you may only get partial reimbursement in one plan year.
Implant-supported bridges are covered less consistently — some plans pay toward the bridge portion but exclude the implants. Always request a pre-treatment estimate from your insurer.
Ways to reduce the cost
- FSA/HSA: Bridges are an eligible pre-tax expense.
- Dental savings plans: $100–$200/yr memberships cut 15–30% with no annual maximum.
- Dental schools: Bridges placed under supervision for 40–60% less.
- Financing: CareCredit or in-house plans spread payments over 6–24 months.
- Stage across plan years: Splitting prep and placement across two years can use two annual maximums.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental bridge cost for one tooth?
Replacing a single missing tooth usually requires a three-unit bridge — the false tooth plus two crowned anchors — costing $2,000–$5,000. A Maryland bridge for one front tooth is cheaper at $1,500–$2,500 because it avoids crowning the neighbors.
Why are bridges priced "per unit"?
Each crown and each false tooth counts as one unit, and labs charge per unit. A bridge replacing one tooth is three units; replacing two adjacent teeth is four units. Multiply the per-unit fee ($700–$1,500) by the number of units to estimate the cost.
How long does a dental bridge last?
A well-maintained traditional bridge lasts 10–15 years; some last longer with good hygiene. Implant-supported bridges can last 20 years or more. Decay in the anchor teeth is the most common reason a traditional bridge eventually needs replacing.
Is a bridge or an implant better?
A bridge is faster and cheaper upfront. An implant costs more but doesn't damage neighboring teeth, preserves jawbone, and usually lasts longer — so it can be the better value over time. The right choice depends on your budget, the health of the adjacent teeth, and how many teeth are missing.
Does getting a bridge hurt?
The procedure is done under local anesthesia and is not painful. Some sensitivity and soreness in the prepared teeth and gums is normal for a few days. A temporary bridge protects the teeth while the permanent one is made (about 2–3 weeks).