Why do I need an initial custom-milled PMMA (acrylic) bridge? Can’t I just get a zirconia bridge?

Zirconia bridges are milled from solid blocks of pure zirconia, a high-quality tooth material that’s known for its strength and aesthetics. Zirconia bridges take between 2 to 4 weeks to manufacture.

In the week following dental implant surgery, the jaw bone begins to soften around the implants, starting a healing process known as osseointegration. A tooth bridge needs to be attached to implants in the first 7 days of surgery, while the bone is still rigid enough to hold it in place. This is why an custom-milled PMMA (acrylic) bridge is placed first.

Once jaw bone and dental implants properly fuse together over 3 to 4 months, new impressions can be taken to design a long-term zirconia bridge. Otherwise there is no rush as your custom-milled PMMA (acrylic) bridge can last up to 2 years on average with proper care.

When it’s time to replace your bridge, you can choose from another custom-milled PMMA (acrylic) bridge at $2,000 per arch or $3,500 for both, or a long-term zirconia bridge, which may last between 10 to 15 years on average, or longer. Zirconia bridges start from $10,500 per arch.

Custom-milled PMMA (acrylic) bridges are custom-milled by our expert team at our in-house dental laboratory.