What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are a common solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. They consist of a false tooth (or teeth) held in place by dental crowns on the adjacent natural teeth. Bridges are custom-made to match the shape, size, and colour of your natural teeth, restoring both appearance and function. They are a great option for people with a few missing teeth who still have healthy surrounding teeth to anchor the bridge.
The Process:
- The adjacent teeth are prepared by removing some enamel to make space for the crowns.
- Impressions of your mouth are taken to create a custom bridge.
- A temporary bridge may be worn while the permanent one is being made.
- Once ready, the permanent bridge is placed and adjusted to ensure a secure fit.
Cost of Dental Bridges:
- Traditional Bridges (for replacing one or more missing teeth with crowns on adjacent teeth) typically range from £500 to £1,500 per unit, depending on materials used and complexity.
- The total cost of a full bridge can range from £1,500 to £4,000, depending on the number of teeth being replaced and the materials chosen.
- Additional costs may be incurred if the adjacent teeth require root canal treatment or other procedures before the bridge can be placed.
How Are Snap-On Veneers Different?
Snap-on veneers provide a non-invasive, affordable alternative to dental bridges. While bridges are designed to restore missing teeth by anchoring them to adjacent teeth, snap-on veneers fit over your existing teeth to improve their appearance. They are custom-made from durable materials and are removable, offering a flexible cosmetic solution without any permanent changes.
Key Differences:
- Functionality: Bridges restore both appearance and function by replacing missing teeth, while snap-on veneers are only for aesthetic purposes, covering imperfections in your existing teeth.
- Invasiveness: Bridges require alterations to adjacent teeth and a longer dental process, while snap-on veneers are non-invasive and can be obtained with a simple at-home impression kit.
- Cost: Snap-on veneers are significantly more affordable than dental bridges, making them a more budget-friendly option for those looking for cosmetic improvement.
Cost of Snap-On Veneers:
- SnapSmiles clip-on veneers typically range from £250 to £700, offering a much more affordable solution compared to dental bridges.
Benefits of Snap-On Veneers vs. Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are an effective long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring both appearance and functionality. They are ideal for individuals with a few missing teeth and healthy adjacent teeth, but the procedure requires dental visits, the preparation (drilling) of natural teeth, and a larger financial investment.
Snap-on veneers, on the other hand, offer a fast, affordable, and non-invasive way to enhance your smile. They are ideal for those looking to improve the appearance of their existing teeth without undergoing complex procedures or permanent changes.