Our Urbandale Dentist Can Replace Your Missing Teeth

Missing a tooth can feel like a blow to your confidence, affecting your smile, speech, and ability to enjoy your favorite foods. Fortunately, dental bridges offer a reliable, long-lasting solution to restore your smile and oral health. Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or other dental issues, a dental bridge can seamlessly fill the gap, blending aesthetics with functionality.

Are you ready to replace your lost teeth? Contact our Urbandale dentist near you today by calling (515) 276-4981. We welcome new patients at Hickman Family Dental.

See what our patients are saying!

• “I’ve been to several dental offices in and around the Des Moines area, but Hickman Dental is the best. Staff are very professional and welcoming. Their family plan is great, and I don’t have to deal with insurance. Before I found Hickman Dental, I was paying all this money out for insurance, and coverage was minimal, so I was paying out of pocket anyway. Also, I had to have some orthodontic work done. It was less than 1/2 at Hickman of what I was quoted from another office, even with insurance. Nothing negative to say about Hickman.” – Mary C.
• “Was looking for a dentist as we’re new to the area, and I’m so glad Hickman Family Dental was recommended. I had an incredible experience – my hygienist, Amy, was incredible and Dr. Erickson was so friendly.” – Anna W.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a custom-made prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It “bridges” the gap in your smile by anchoring artificial teeth (called pontics) to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. These supporting teeth, known as abutments, provide stability for the bridge, ensuring it stays securely in place.

Dental bridges are crafted to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, restoring both the appearance and functionality of your smile. They’re a popular choice for patients seeking a fixed, non-removable solution to tooth loss, offering a more permanent alternative to dentures.

Dental Bridge Benefits

Patients can experience the following dental bridge benefits:

• Restored smile
• Improved functionality
• Maintains facial structure
• Prevents further dental complications
• Long-lasting restoration
• Affordable solution
• Boost in confidence
• Minimally-invasive procedure

The Dental Bridge Procedure

The dental bridge procedure involves preparing the adjacent teeth, called abutments, by reshaping them to support the bridge. A custom-made bridge, consisting of replacement teeth (called pontics) and crowns for the abutment teeth, is then placed over the prepared teeth with dental cement, restoring both function and aesthetics. The bridge is cemented in place, providing a fixed solution for missing teeth. After getting a dental bridge, proper care is essential for longevity.

How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost in Urbandale?

While the costs of your dental bridge will vary based on several factors, you can expect to spend between $2,000 and $5,000. Factors that will influence the total cost include:

• Geographical location
• Materials used
• The type of dental bridge
• Number of teeth that need to be replaced
• A dentist’s expertise and experience
• Dental insurance plan
• Additional procedures

Are you ready to schedule a consultation? Contact our Urbandale dentist at (515) 276-4981 today.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

To ensure your dental bridge lasts as long as possible, proper care is essential. Follow these tips to keep your bridge in top condition:

• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily, using floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean under the bridge.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing on hard or sticky foods (like ice or caramel) can damage your bridge. Stick to a bridge-friendly diet.
• Visit Our Dentist Regularly: Schedule checkups and cleanings every six months to monitor your bridge and overall oral health.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking can stain your bridge and increase the risk of gum disease, which can compromise the bridge’s stability.
• Use a Nightguard if Needed: If you grind your teeth at night, a nightguard can protect your bridge from excessive wear.

Who Is a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?

Ideal dental bridge candidates include patients with:

• Healthy Adjacent Teeth: The abutment teeth must be strong enough to support the bridge.
• Good Oral Health: Candidates should have healthy gums and no active dental infections.
• Sufficient Bone Density: For implant-supported bridges, adequate jawbone density is required for implant placement.
• Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Patients must be willing to maintain proper oral hygiene to ensure the longevity of the bridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Schedule an Appointment at Hickman Family Dental

Missing teeth don’t have to define your smile or your confidence. A dental bridge offers a reliable, attractive, and functional solution to restore your oral health and enhance your quality of life. Don’t let gaps in your smile hold you back—take action today to reclaim your confidence.

Contact our Urbandale dentist today at (515) 276-4981 to explore your tooth replacement options.