Dental Bridges
in Madison, IN
Restore Your Smile
Why choose Clifty Family Dental for dental bridges?
Missing teeth can affect your smile and oral health. At Clifty Family Dental, we've been helping patients in Jefferson County restore their smiles for over 30 years. We focus on conservative care and honest assessments. Our warm, friendly team will ensure you're comfortable throughout your Madison dental bridge procedure.
Dental Bridges at a Glance
- Replace one or more missing teeth
- Improve the appearance and function of your smile
- Fixed in place, not removable
- Can last 5-15 years with proper care
- Usually completed in two visits
The Bridges of Jefferson County
What are dental bridges?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It "bridges" the gap created by missing teeth. A typical bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns on the surrounding teeth. Bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, gold, or alloys.
Bridging the Gap
What is the dental bridge procedure like?
Getting a dental bridge usually takes two visits. During the first visit, we prepare the surrounding teeth for crowns. We then take impressions of your teeth. These are sent to a lab to create your custom bridge. We fit you with a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums. On your second visit, we remove the temporary bridge and place the permanent one, adjusting it for a perfect fit.
Replace Missing Teeth
What conditions do dental bridges address?
Dental bridges primarily address the issue of missing teeth. They can replace one or more adjacent missing teeth. Bridges help restore your ability to chew and speak properly. They also prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position. Bridges can improve the appearance of your smile and maintain the shape of your face.
Preserve What’s Important
What areas of the mouth can dental bridges address?
Dental bridges can replace missing teeth in any part of your mouth. They're commonly used for front teeth, as these are most visible when you smile. Bridges can also replace back teeth to restore chewing function. The location of the missing teeth will help determine the best type of bridge for you.
Joy You Can Feel
What are the benefits of dental bridges?
Dental bridges offer several benefits:
- They restore your smile's appearance and your ability to chew and speak properly.
- Bridges prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position.
- They distribute the forces of your bite properly, maintaining the shape of your face.
- Bridges are fixed in place, so you don't need to remove them for cleaning like dentures.
Mend the Gap
Am I a candidate for a dental bridge?
Good candidates for dental bridges have one or more missing teeth. You need to have healthy teeth on either side of the gap to support the bridge. Your gums should be free of disease. You must be committed to good oral hygiene to maintain the bridge and surrounding teeth. During your consultation for a dental bridge Madison dentist, Dr. Paul Wehner, will assess your oral health to determine if a bridge is the best option for you.
Time to Adjust
Dental Bridge Recovery
There's minimal recovery time needed after getting a dental bridge. Your teeth might feel sensitive for a few days, especially to hot and cold. You can return to most normal activities right away. We recommend eating soft foods for the first few days while you get used to your new bridge.
Long-Lasting Restoration
Dental Bridge Results
You'll see the full results of your dental bridge immediately after it's placed. With proper care, bridges can last 5-15 years or even longer. To maintain your results, brush and floss regularly, paying special attention to cleaning under and around the bridge. Regular dental check-ups are crucial to ensure the longevity of your bridge.
Dental Bridge Frequently Asked Questions
Brush and floss as normal, paying extra attention to cleaning under the bridge. We'll show you how to use special floss threaders or interdental brushes.
No, a traditional dental bridge is fixed in place and can only be removed by a dentist.
Yes, we design bridges to match the color and shape of your natural teeth.
Yes, once you're used to your bridge, you should be able to eat most foods normally. We recommend avoiding very sticky or hard foods.
The procedure shouldn't hurt. We use local anesthesia when preparing your teeth.
The cost varies depending on the type of bridge and the number of teeth replaced. We'll provide a detailed estimate during your consultation.
Yes, alternatives include dental implants and partial dentures. We'll discuss all options to find the best solution for you.
