Missing teeth aren’t just inconvenient. They can affect everything from how you chew to how confident you feel when you smile. The good news? Restorative dentistry has solutions that work. If you’re considering bridges in Issaquah, it’s natural to have a few questions. Will it be uncomfortable? How long does it take? What should you expect? To help you feel prepared, we’ve laid out a simple step-by-step overview. Knowing what’s ahead can make the entire experience feel much easier.
A dental bridge replaces a missing tooth by anchoring an artificial one (called a pontic) between two healthy teeth or implants. It’s a simple way to restore function and aesthetics without surgery. Whether you're replacing one tooth or a few, dental bridges help keep your bite aligned and your smile intact. Patients looking for bridges in Issaquah often choose this solution for its comfort and lasting results.
Before anything else, your dentist will take time to evaluate your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. This includes X-rays, a visual exam, and a chat about your goals. If a bridge is right for you, the dental team will explain what kind works best, whether traditional, cantilever, or implant-supported. You’ll get answers to every question with no pressure or confusing language. This visit is all about clarity and comfort.
At your next appointment, the teeth on either side of the gap (abutment teeth) are carefully reshaped to fit dental crowns. These crowns will hold the bridge in place. Your dentist will remove only what’s necessary. After reshaping, impressions are taken using digital or physical molds. These go to a lab where your custom bridge is made.
Before you leave, your dentist will place a temporary bridge to protect the area and help you eat and speak normally while your permanent bridge is crafted. Depending on lab turnaround and your schedule, the entire process usually takes two appointments over two to three weeks.
A few weeks later, you’ll return to have your bridge fitted. The temporary one is removed, and the permanent bridge is checked for fit, bite, and comfort. It’s adjusted if needed and then bonded into place. Some patients feel minor pressure or sensitivity, but it's temporary and manageable. You’ll leave the office able to smile, chew, and speak with ease.
Dental bridges are easy to maintain with the right routine. Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss daily with a bridge threader or water flosser to clean under the bridge. Avoid hard or sticky foods for the first few days. Regular dental checkups will help us monitor your bridge and overall oral health.
If you ever feel discomfort or notice a change in fit, don’t wait—call our office. We’ll make sure everything’s working as it should.
If you’re considering bridges in Issaquah, you deserve a dental team that treats you like family. At APEX Dental Care, we restore smiles with care, precision, and a warm touch. Contact us today to book your consultation. We're happy to help you feel like yourself again.
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