Dr. Thompson, your dentist in Greeley Colorado, is an experienced restorative dentist for all ages. Our specialty is restorative and cosmetic dental procedures. A dental implant, dental bridge, or implant-secured bridge replaces one or several consecutive teeth.
A dental bridge will give back natural function and aesthetics when designed and placed by an experienced restorative dentist. Whatever your needs may be, Dr. Joseph Thompson can provide experienced dental care and a lasting result.
Dental Bridge or Implant? What to Consider
In the case of a single missing tooth, replacement options are typically a single tooth implant or a dental bridge. When choosing the most suitable option for your needs, Dr. Thompson discusses what to expect from treatment planning to final results.
For most patients, a dental implant will offer the most natural results for function, dental health, and aesthetics. We want you to fully understand the impact that your treatment will have on your overall dental health and well-being so that you can make an educated choice as to which is best for you and your goals.
Dental implants will offer key benefits worth considering when weighing your options:
- Stabilizes bone and minimizes changes in the jaw
- Restores normal chewing function
- Permanent, secure restoration
- No need to degrade existing healthy teeth to secure a bridge
About the dental bridge process:
Dr. Thompson will evaluate all aspects of your oral health and the stability of your bite before recommending treatment options to restore lost teeth.
The process for the placement of a dental bridge will vary depending on whether dental implants are being used to secure the bridge. If dental implants are being placed we will schedule and complete the surgical phase and allow several weeks or months time for proper healing of the gums and soft tissues. The next step is to take impressions and begin the design of your new teeth.
If your existing natural teeth are being used to anchor the bridge, Dr. Thompson will remove enough tooth structure to accommodate the placement of dental crowns as part of the bridge. The dentist takes dental impressions that the lab uses to design your new bridge. It blends in perfectly with your smile.
Once the bridge is ready or your dental implant restoration is complete we will schedule a final visit for placement. You will leave our office after this visit with a beautiful new smile in place and a renewed confidence in your smile.
Dental Bridge FAQs
How many teeth can be in a bridge?
Bridges can replace multiple teeth. A traditional dental bridge can replace up to 4 teeth that sit next to each other. A dental implant-supported bridge can permanently replace any number of teeth.
Are dental bridges painful?
No. They should not cause you pain or discomfort if fabricated properly. Dr. Thompson uses digital technology to provide accurate and seamless results. If this is your first time using dental bridges, it can feel weird at first. Give yourself a couple of days, or a week or two. Your mouth will adjust to wearing your dental bridge. If you start to feel pain after a while, contact us.
How is a bridge attached?
Traditional bridges are attached to neighboring teeth with dental crowns. Dental implants support implant-supported bridges for a permanent, non-removable restoration.
Does a dental bridge damage your teeth?
The dentist shaves your teeth down if you decide to get a removable, traditional bridge. This helps the crowns that hold the bridge stay in place. Alternatively, no teeth are damaged if you decide on an implant-supported bridge.
What happens if you get a cavity under a bridge?
We can fix cavities with fillings if you develop a tooth infection under your bridge. This does not happen if you do your part by brushing at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and maintaining your bridge.
Does a dental bridge feel natural?
Yes. Today’s modern dental bridges are as natural-looking as ever. Visit your dentist for the best results and avoid going with cheaper over-the-counter options.
What causes pain under a dental bridge?
Many issues cause pain. Irritated gums, a loose bridge, gum infections, and tooth cavities can contribute to pain under a tooth bridge. Visit our dentist for a thorough evaluation and recommendations before assuming what you need.
Schedule A Dental Bridge Consultation
Replacing missing teeth is important for many reasons, not just the stability of your dental health. If you have missing teeth and would like to explore your treatment options, schedule a visit with your dentist in Greeley, CO at Thompson Advanced Dentistry. We welcome new patients from Greeley and many local communities. Contact our office at 970.205.9614 or request an appointment online.