What Are Dental Bridges?

If you have lost one or more teeth, the issue goes beyond appearance — missing teeth can cause your remaining teeth to shift out of place. This may lead to increased bite tension, discomfort while chewing, or difficulty speaking. A dental bridge restores both the function and look of your smile by filling the gaps with a false tooth supported by crowns, dental implants, or a combination of both. At Reflections Dental in Peoria, AZ, Dr. Donald Hildebrandt provides custom-made bridges crafted from high-quality materials to help you regain your confident smile. If you are missing one or more teeth, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hildebrandt to explore your dental bridge options.

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What Can I Expect from Dental Bridges?

Once your teeth are prepared, Dr. Hildebrandt will take digital images and impressions to create your custom bridge. If necessary, a temporary bridge may be placed while your permanent one is being made. When your bridge is ready, your mouth will be numbed to ensure comfort. Additional sedation options are available for patients with dental anxiety, fear, or a sensitive gag reflex. Your bridge will then be secured either by cementing it onto existing teeth or attaching it to implants, depending on your personalized treatment plan. Dr. Hildebrandt will carefully adjust the fit to ensure comfort and stability.

What Does Aftercare for Dental Bridges Involve?

After placement, you should notice improved function and appearance. A follow-up visit may be needed to fine-tune the fit if your bridge feels loose within the first few weeks. Dr. Hildebrandt or his team will instruct you on how to properly care for your bridge, including cleaning techniques and any dietary precautions. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial because decay can develop under the bridge. With proper care, your dental bridge can last for many years. Continue regular visits to Reflections Dental for annual exams and twice-yearly cleanings, where Dr. Hildebrandt will monitor the condition of your bridge and determine if repairs or replacements are necessary.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges provide many advantages for patients wanting to replace missing teeth and improve oral health. Bridges from Reflections Dental in Peoria, AZ can:

  • Enhance your smile by filling in gaps
  • Distribute bite forces evenly to protect natural teeth
  • Support facial muscles for a more youthful appearance
  • Maintain the natural shape of your face
  • Offer a durable, long-lasting tooth replacement
  • Prevent remaining teeth from shifting
  • Restore proper chewing and speaking abilities
  • Require minimal maintenance
  • Boost your confidence and overall well-being

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Bridges?

Missing teeth are more than just a cosmetic concern — they can seriously impact your oral health. Gaps from lost teeth can cause surrounding teeth to shift, potentially leading to bite problems such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite. Over time, missing teeth may also contribute to gum recession and jawbone loss. To support a dental bridge properly, you need strong adjacent teeth, healthy gums, and sufficient jawbone density. During your consultation, Dr. Hildebrandt will assess your oral health and recommend the best type of bridge and materials suited to your needs.

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Dental Bridge FAQ

How should I care for my dental bridge?

Maintain your dental bridge by practicing good oral hygiene — brush twice daily, floss regularly, and attend routine dental check-ups. Avoid chewing on hard foods that could damage your bridge.

Will a dental bridge affect my speech or eating?

At first, your dental bridge might feel unfamiliar and require a brief adjustment period. Once you adapt, it should restore normal speech and chewing without any issues.

Is getting a dental bridge painful?

The procedure is typically pain-free due to the use of local anesthesia during preparation and placement. Some mild discomfort afterward is possible but can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Restorations for Oral Health

Even if a gap doesn’t bother you cosmetically, leaving it untreated can lead to long-term complications. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Hildebrandt to learn more about dental bridge options tailored to your needs. Reflections Dental proudly offers custom dental bridges designed to enhance both the health and appearance of your smile. Contact our Peoria, AZ office today to book your consultation.