ServicesRestorative Dentistry in San Tan Valley, AZ

Restorative Dentistry in San Tan Valley, AZ

Dr. D. Ray Gifford DMD - Restorative Dentistry in San Tan Valley, AZ

Restorative dentistry puts back what has been lost — replacing missing teeth and rebuilding damaged ones so your bite works properly again.

To schedule your appointment, contact our office at (480) 581-7681 or visit us at our San Tan Valley office.

About Restorative Dentistry

Flossed Family Dentistry is committed to offering a full range of dentistry services. Whether you've had repairs or need a complete replacement, we recommend continual check-ups to assess your gums and bone density to assess the surrounding areas associated with your implant.

Why Replacing a Missing Tooth Matters

A missing tooth is not a self-contained problem. The teeth on either side gradually tilt toward the gap and the opposing tooth drifts down or up into the empty space. Over months and years that alters how your bite comes together, and an altered bite creates uneven wear and strain elsewhere. Chewing changes too. Most people compensate by favouring the other side without consciously deciding to, which concentrates load on fewer teeth. Replacing the tooth sooner rather than later usually keeps the options simpler as well, since significant drift can limit what will fit in the space later on.

Planning Your Treatment

There is rarely only one way to solve a missing tooth, and the options differ in cost, timeline, longevity and how much work is done to neighbouring teeth. A bridge is quicker and needs no surgery; an implant leaves adjacent teeth untouched but takes longer. Dr. Gifford will lay out what applies to your specific case — including the condition of the teeth and bone around the gap, which often narrows the choice more than preference does. Call (480) 581-7681 to arrange an assessment. We accept most PPO insurance plans, and financing is available through Cherry and CareCredit for treatment you would rather spread out.

Our Restorative Dentistry in San Tan Valley, AZ Services

Bridges

Bridges

Fixed restorations that replace one or more missing teeth, restoring both the appearance and the function of your bite.

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Dental Implant Restoration

Dental Implant Restoration

Restoring a dental implant with a custom crown, completing the replacement of a missing tooth so it looks and functions naturally.

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FAQs About Restorative Dentistry in San Tan Valley, AZ

Q. How long does a dental bridge last?

Many years with good care. The main factors are how well you keep the supporting teeth and the area under the bridge clean, and whether you grind. The bridge itself does not decay, but the teeth anchoring it can.

Q. How do I clean under a bridge?

Regular floss will not pass between the replacement tooth and the gum, so a floss threader, superfloss or an interdental brush is used to clean underneath the span. We will show you the technique when the bridge is fitted.

Q. What are my alternatives to a bridge?

Depending on the situation, options can include an implant-supported restoration or a removable partial denture. Each has trade-offs in cost, longevity and how much work is done to the neighbouring teeth. Dr. Gifford will go through what applies to your case.

Important Terms

  • BridgeA fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the natural teeth on either side of the gap.
  • Abutment TeethThe natural teeth on either side of a gap that support a bridge. They are prepared to take crowns as part of the restoration.
  • PonticThe artificial tooth in a bridge that fills the gap. It rests against the gum but is not attached to it, which is why cleaning underneath matters.
  • Dental ImplantA post, usually titanium, placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root.

Schedule Your Appointment with Dr. D. Ray Gifford DMD

Call (480) 581-7681 to discuss replacing a missing tooth. There is usually more than one option, and they are worth comparing.

Visit us at: 1735 W. Hunt Hwy., Ste. C-103, San Tan Valley, AZ 85143