Dental Bridge Care at Marine Hills Dentistry, Federal Way, WA

Restoration of oral function and comfort at Marine Hills Dentistry is not a guarantee that patients will regain function and comfort. Among all the restorative care we provide, the dental bridge is often considered the best, a proven method for filling gaps caused by missing teeth and ensuring long-term oral health. Based in Federal Way, WA, Marine Hills Dentistry offers decades of clinical expertise, modern technology, and patient-centered care to create long-term solutions tailored to each patient.

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What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a custom-made prosthetic device to fill the missing space occupied by one or more missing teeth. The procedure commonly involves two or more crowns on anchor teeth adjacent to the space, which hold a false tooth (or teeth) in place. Pontics are artificial teeth, and abutment teeth are anchor teeth. Dental bridges are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of these materials, which provide both durability and a natural appearance.

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Why Dental Bridges Matter?

Missing teeth not only degrade your smile but also affect chewing, clear speech, and support for the adjacent teeth. Teeth push adjacent teeth without them, resulting in a bite disorder, jaw pain, and an increased risk of periodontal disease and supporting tooth loss. A dental bridge achieves the following:

• Restores normal chewing and speaking function
• Prevents the drifting of the adjacent teeth
• Equalizes biting forces
• Preserve your natural facial contours

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Who is a good candidate for a dental bridge?

The ideal candidates for a dental bridge are:

• Individuals with one or more missing teeth in the same area
• Have healthy gums and adjacent teeth to act as pillars for the bridge
• Require a fixed tooth-replacement option
• Require a long-lasting restoration procedure that ensures maximum oral functionality

Dr. Hahn will review your oral health, the status of the adjacent supporting teeth, and your bone quality to determine whether a dental bridge is in your best interest.

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The Dental Bridge Procedure

It usually takes two or more visits to place a dental bridge:

• Initial Consultation and Examination

During your first visit, Dr. Hahn conducts a comprehensive oral examination, including diagnostic x-rays and a review of your dental and medical history. If a bridge is indicated, the teeth on each side of the space (abutments) are prepared. They are shaped to hold the crowns that will hold the bridge.

• Impressions and Temporary Bridge

Detailed impressions and computer pictures are taken to create your bridge. Your last bridge-setting teeth are seated with a temporary seating bridge, ready to work until a definitive restoration can be built.

• Final Bridge Placement

When the final bridge is ready, Dr. Hahn removes the temporary and checks the fit, position, and color of the new bridge. Adjustments are made as necessary before the bridge is cemented into position.

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Types of dental bridges we provide

We customize each bridge to fit the individual needs of the patient at Marine Hills Dentistry. Some of the most frequently asked-for types of bridges include:

• Traditional Bridges: They are most often utilized and backed by crowns on both sides of the space.
• Cantilever Bridges: Used in cases where there is one tooth beside the missing tooth.
• Maryland Bridges: Metal or porcelain bridges cemented behind the neighbor's teeth with minimal preparation.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: A fixed, newer alternative using dental implants instead of the roots of natural teeth as anchors.

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Aftercare and Longevity

A well-maintained dental bridge can last for 10 to 15 years or even longer. Patients need to:

• Brush and floss at home every day, especially around the bridge
• Floss under the pontic using a threader or interdental brush
• Get periodic checkups and cleaning with the dentist

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Meet the Doctor

Dr. Dennis Hahn, D.D.S.

Dr. Hahn earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1991 from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry and has been a general and restorative dentist for over 30 years. Dr. Hahn joined Marine Hills Dentistry in the Federal Way area in 2003. Dedicated to ongoing education and excellence, Dr. Hahn is a member of local study groups for dentists, staying current with new procedures and techniques.

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Insurance and Payment Plans

We treat patients of all kinds at Marine Hills Dentistry. We welcome most of our PPO carriers and offer easy payment plans.

Payments We Accept:

• Personal checks drawn from a personal checking account
• Cash
• Credit cards and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express)

Payment Options:

• CareCredit third-party finance payments with low or no interest for months
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) for eligible services

We'd be happy to help you verify your coverage for the procedure and walk you through your cost options.

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Come and Visit Us Today

Is it time to restore your ability to chew and speak with a custom dental bridge that's designed specifically for you? Call Marine Hills Dentistry today.