Are you missing one or several teeth?
If you are missing teeth due to gum disease, dental trauma, or tooth decay, you may need to explore your tooth replacement options. Our restorative dental procedures aim to restore damaged teeth and replace missing teeth.
A dental bridge is a customizable set of prosthetic teeth that will fill the gap in your smile. The adjacent teeth support a traditional dental bridge. However, for a complete solution to tooth loss, a dental bridge can be fixed into place using dental implants.
At Design Dental in North Liberty, we offer a full range of tooth replacement options for patients with missing teeth. Dr. S. Jeremy Tu is committed to providing personalized, high-quality restorative dentistry for those in need. He takes a comprehensive approach to your care to ensure long-lasting, natural-looking results.
Replacing Missing Teeth with a Dental Bridge
If you are missing one or several teeth, a dental bridge may be right for you. Depending on your budget, dental health needs, and long-term goals, we will tailor a dental bridge to suit your unique needs.
A dental bridge can help restore function for patients who are missing one or more teeth. After a consultation, Dr. Tu can determine if a dental crown or dental implant-secured bridge is right for your smile.
Traditional vs. Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
Traditional Dental Bridge Procedure
For patients with missing teeth, we often recommend visiting our North Liberty dental office for a consultation. During your consultation, Dr. Tu can assess the condition of your teeth, jaw, and gums to determine which tooth replacement option will best suit your needs.
For Traditional Dental Bridges:
- First, your dentist will reshape the surrounding teeth to prepare them for the dental crowns.
- Then, they will take digital impressions of your teeth to help design a dental bridge that fits comfortably and appears naturally in your mouth.
- Next, we will send your impressions to a local dental lab. An experienced technician will create your custom dental bridge.
- Once your dental bridge is complete, your dentist will carefully secure your dental bridge to your teeth.
For Implant-Supported Dental Bridges:
- An oral surgeon will perform the surgical phase of the implant surgery.
- 3-6 months later, once the implants have fused with the jaw bone, your dentist will place your abutments and take digital impressions of your smile.
- We will send your impressions to a local dental lab for the fabrication of your custom dental bridge.
- Once your dental is ready, your dentist will secure it to your dental implants.
Dental Bridges FAQs
Dental bridges replace one or multiple consecutive teeth. Read the answers to these frequently asked questions to learn more.
What types of dental bridges are available?
There are several types of dental bridges: traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported. Traditional bridges are the most common, and crowns are used on adjacent teeth for support. Cantilever bridges are used when there’s only one adjacent tooth. Maryland bridges use a metal framework bonded to the back of nearby teeth, and implant-supported bridges are secured by dental implants instead of natural teeth.
Does getting a dental bridge hurt?
The process of getting a dental bridge is generally not painful. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area during the preparation of the supporting teeth. After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity, but this is typically temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long do dental bridges last?
Dental bridges are designed to last 10 to 15 years, depending on the materials used and how well you care for them. However, with proper oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding habits like grinding your teeth, your bridge can last for many years.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes, you can eat most foods with a dental bridge, though it’s important to avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge or cause it to come loose. After getting a bridge, you may need to adjust to how it feels while chewing, but with time, you should be able to eat comfortably.
Will a dental bridge affect my speech?
Once it is in place and fully adjusted, a dental bridge should not affect your speech. Initially, you may need some time to get used to the new appliance, but with practice, you should be able to speak clearly. A dental bridge restores the functionality of your teeth, allowing you to speak and chew properly.
Does insurance cover dental bridges?
Dental bridges are often covered by dental insurance, though coverage depends on the specifics of your plan. Some insurance policies may cover a portion of the cost, while others may not cover cosmetic procedures. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.
To schedule an appointment, call (319) 284-4361 or request an appointment online.