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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.
It’s normal to wonder when you can eat again after your dental bridge appointment. In most cases, we recommend waiting about an hour before having anything to eat or drink. This gives the dental cement enough time to fully set, helping your new bridge stay securely in place.
When you’re ready to eat, start with soft foods that don’t require much chewing—think mashed potatoes, smoothies, scrambled eggs, or soup. These gentle options are easy on your teeth while your mouth adjusts. Over the next few days, you can gradually reintroduce firmer foods. Just be sure to avoid anything sticky or crunchy (like caramel or popcorn) for a while, since those can put extra pressure on your bridge or even cause damage.
If you’re unsure about what’s safe to eat or if something doesn’t feel quite right, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Downey Park Family Dentistry. Dr. Corey Acree and our team are always here to help.
Dental bridges are incredibly versatile and can be used to replace anywhere from one to four missing teeth in a row. The exact number depends on a few things, including where the gap is located and how strong your surrounding teeth are. These nearby teeth, called abutment teeth, serve as anchors for your new bridge.
In most traditional bridges, we place a crown on each abutment tooth and attach the replacement tooth or teeth (called pontics) in between. If the gap is larger, your dentist might suggest a different type of bridge—like a cantilever or Maryland bridge—or a removable denture to provide added support.
Every smile is unique, and so is every treatment plan. Dr. Acree will walk you through the best options for your needs during your consultation.
Not at all. Getting a dental bridge is considered a minimally invasive process and is much less involved than something like a dental implant. The entire process usually takes two visits.
At the first appointment, we’ll carefully shape the teeth on either side of the gap so there’s room to fit the crowns that will support your bridge. We use a numbing medication, so you’ll stay comfortable the entire time. Then, we’ll take impressions of your teeth to design your custom bridge. Before you leave, we’ll place a temporary version to protect your smile while the permanent one is being made.
At your second visit, we’ll remove the temporary bridge and fit the new one. We’ll make sure it feels comfortable and looks just right before cementing it into place. Our goal is to make the entire experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
There are a few great reasons patients choose dental bridges. For starters, they’re a quick and effective way to restore your smile—no surgery or long healing time required. Most people can complete the process in just a few weeks.
Dental bridges also help prevent shifting of your other teeth, which can happen when a gap is left open too long. By filling in the space, a bridge keeps your bite aligned and supports the natural shape of your face.
Cost is another factor. Bridges are typically more affordable than implants and still offer great results. Plus, with today’s materials, your bridge will be made to blend in beautifully with your natural teeth, so no one will even know it’s there.
If you’re exploring your options, Dr. Acree and the Downey Park Family Dentistry team are happy to walk you through what makes the most sense for you. We’re here to help you smile with confidence again.
