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
Why Replacing a Missing Tooth Matters
Planning Your Treatment
Our Restorative Dentistry in San Tan Valley, AZ Services

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
Restoring a dental implant with a custom crown, completing the replacement of a missing tooth so it looks and functions naturally.
Learn MoreFAQs 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
- Bridge – A fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the natural teeth on either side of the gap.
- Abutment Teeth – The natural teeth on either side of a gap that support a bridge. They are prepared to take crowns as part of the restoration.
- Pontic – The 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 Implant – A 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
