Tooth loss can make you feel self-conscious, make it harder to eat your favorite foods, and lead to other serious oral health problems later in life. If you have lost one or more teeth in Modesto, dental bridges from Dr. Corey Acree at Downey Park Family Dentistry may be right for you. Contact us now to schedule a restorative dentistry consultation in Modesto and learn more about dental bridges and other options for replacing missing teeth.
To begin the process, Dr. Acree will clean and numb your mouth. Then, he will trim the two healthy teeth on either side of the gap in your smile. These “abutment teeth” are what will hold your bridge in place. Then, Dr. Acree will take impressions and images of your mouth.
The images and impressions of your teeth will be sent to our partner dental lab, where your permanent bridge will be built. You’ll be sent home with temporary crowns or a temporary bridge to protect your newly-trimmed teeth. It typically takes 2-3 weeks to build your permanent bridge.
Once your permanent bridge has been sent to Downey Park Family Dentistry, you’ll come back for one final appointment in Modesto. Dr. Acree will remove your temporary crowns or bridge. Then, he will check the fit of your bridge and make any minor last-minute adjustments, as necessary. Finally, he will permanently attach your bridge to your teeth using powerful dental cement. Then, you’ll be sent home to enjoy your new smile.
Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. Bridges are particularly useful if you’re missing a row of two or three missing teeth. This is because a single dental bridge can typically be used to replace up to three missing teeth in a row.
Dental bridges are a great alternative to removable partial dentures, since they last much longer and require less special care. Bridges are also cheaper than dental implants, in most cases, so they may be a better option if you are on a budget. Not sure if you need a bridge? Dr. Acree in Modesto can discuss all of your tooth restoration options with you and help you make the right choice.
If you’re missing one tooth or a row of two or three teeth, a dental bridge may be a good option for you. However, to get a dental bridge, the two teeth on either side of the gap in your smile must be healthy. Your mouth also must be free of any other major oral health issues like gum disease or infected teeth. If present, these issues must be resolved before you can get a dental bridge.
However, there are also some other options for restoring missing teeth, such as dental implants and removable dentures. At your Modesto appointment, Dr. Corey Acree can determine if you’re a good candidate for dental bridges, as well as these other alternatives for tooth replacement.
Dental bridges usually last up to 10 years. In some cases, they can last even longer if you take good care of your teeth. This means they have a lifespan that’s longer than dentures, but not quite as long as dental implants.To maximize the lifespan of your bridges, it’s important to brush and floss your teeth regularly and clean your bridges as instructed by our Modesto dentist. You also should come into our office every six months for a teeth cleaning and oral exam.
