Dental Bridges Corvallis, OR
A Great Way to Replace Missing Teeth
Sometimes teeth get so damaged or decayed that they can’t be saved. Having one or more missing teeth can cause a variety of health problems and cosmetic issues. What can you do about that empty space? A dental bridge may be one of the best options available to you.
At Timberhill Dental, we make it our mission to provide minimally invasive, long-term restoration options for missing teeth that look and feel natural. Fixed bridges for Corvallis patients function like real teeth, so they never need to be removed like dentures do. At Timberhill Dental,we will use the latest digital x-ray and laser diagnostic technologies to help determine if a bridge is the best choice for you.
Do You Need a Dental Bridge?
A missing tooth or teeth can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Bite and jaw joint problems from teeth shifting to fill the space
- The “sunken face” look associated with missing teeth
- Difficulty chewing comfortably
- Feeling self-conscious about the appearance of missing teeth
A fixed dental bridge is a safe, durable, and affordable solution to missing teeth.
When we place a bridge, a single appliance is attached to two teeth on each side of the space where a tooth is missing. An artificial tooth attached in the middle of the bridge fills in the gap. Sometimes the teeth on either side of the gap are prepared for crowns, and the bridge is cemented onto the prepared surface of the teeth, creating the appearance of a “new” tooth.
In some cases, we may alternatively use a resin-bonded bridge that attaches to the natural teeth on each side using metal brackets. We are among the most trusted choice for dental bridges in Corvallis.
Did You Know?
When you leave missing teeth untreated, the bone in your mouth and jaw eventually starts to deteriorate. That’s why some people with missing teeth often notice a difference in the appearance of their faces (the “sunken face” look).
Bridges can help avoid this problem because they work just like natural teeth. That’s why I recommend fixed bridges as a preferred alternative to dentures whenever possible.
Bridges vs. Dentures
For many years, dentures were the only option for people living with missing teeth. Fortunately, today that is no longer the case.
Fixed bridges are more functional, comfortable, convenient, and natural-looking than dentures.
| Fixed Bridges | Dentures | |
|---|---|---|
| Functionality | Work practically the same as real teeth with improved chewing ability. | Make it difficult to eat and chew the way you used to. |
| Appearance | Look just like real teeth and help prevent the jaw bone loss that often results from missing teeth. | Can look natural if they’re well-made, but living without a more permanent solution can lead to bone loss and the “sunken face” look. |
| Health Consequences | Help prevent potential bite and jaw joint problems and even bone loss. | Don’t address most of the health risks associated with missing teeth. |
| Comfort | Feel natural and promote gum health. | Can be uncomfortable and often irritate gums. |
| Convenience | Never need to be removed, and provide a durable, long-term solution. | Need to be taken in and out regularly for cleaning, and can be easy to lose. |
| Cost | Have a higher cost upfront but can save money that might be spent on future dental treatment. | Have a lower cost up front, but often result in future dental problems that cost much more to fix. |
Our Minimally Invasive Process
At Timberhill Dental, we minimize patients’ discomfort by offering high-tech, minimally invasive dental care that delivers incredible results with less pain and anxiety. Our approach to bridges at our Corvallis office emphasizes your comfort!
When you come into our office for a dental bridge, here’s what you can expect:
- As soon as you walk into the door you’ll feel relaxed and at home in our soothing, spa-like office environment.
- We’ll offer you a variety of spa amenities, like warm, scented hand towels and soft neck pillows.
- We’ll clean and prepare the teeth around the missing one.
- We’ll create a unique porcelain (tooth colored) bridge to fit your mouth.
- Finally, we’ll place the bridge in your mouth and make sure it’s comfortable and a perfect fit before you leave.
What Our Clients Say
“Not only are Timberhill Dental’s staff friendly and great people, they also provide excellent dental care. We have always received top notch care and advice. We always leave the office feeling impressed by the entire experience.“
– Abby Wojcikiewicz ND
“I can’t say enough about how great my experience was at Timberhill Dental. There are so many little touches (hot towel when you’re finished, warm paraffin hand treatments during cleanings, etc.) that make Timberhill stand out. I really felt like they all genuinely cared about me and my teeth and my experience in their office.“
– Shasta Barnes
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better? Bridges, implants, crowns, or dentures?
While each of these restorations is unique, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Each has its own benefits depending on your dental health needs and other factors. For example, while bridges are more durable than dentures, dentures may have a lower up-front cost. Functionally and aesthetically speaking, a custom bridge is an excellent choice for filling a gap in your smile and restoring lost teeth.
Keep reading to learn more about other restorations like crowns and implants.
How long does a dental bridge last?
With proper at-home care, and regular exams and cleanings, our patients’ dental bridges often last 10-15 years — or even longer.
How many teeth can a bridge replace?
Unlike dentures or other treatments designed to replace an entire arch of missing teeth, a dental bridge is best used for filling a gap of 1-4 lost or damaged teeth. The most common dental bridge is one that’s used to replace the 2 front teeth.
Are there any foods I should avoid if I have a dental bridge?
Everyone should eat a diet rich in leafy vegetables and lean protein. Avoid sugary and acidic foods (even “natural” juices). But generally speaking, dental bridges are strong and you will be able to eat the foods you enjoy. Just take care with sticky, crunchy, and hard foods. Also be aware that just like your natural teeth, a dental bridge can be stained by darkly pigmented foods like coffee and tea.