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Dental bridge in Valparaiso, IN
Featured Reviews
Yes I had a very good experience and my son also liked the dentist very much I would rate them a ten
Thanks
This is the place to go and the dentist to see if you've ever been afraid to go take care of your teeth!
I'm 52 years of age which gives me many decades to reference.
In short, my story: my fear of dentistry started when I was 9 and was having a cavity filled. As the dentist was cleaning the plaque out of the cavity in order to put in the filling, the drill ran over my exposed nerve. When the drill hit the nerve I jumped swinging my arms out accidentally hitting the dentist almost knocking her off of her stool! Needless to say I got in trouble because my response was taken by the dentist then my mother as being purposeful when in actuality it was reactionary! All I knew was it hurt like hell, I got in trouble, and this led to a root canal! Thus, my lifelong animosity towards dentistry was born. If that wasn't enough, I had to go to a hospital for surgical dentistry to remove my impacted wisdom teeth! End of drama.
Fast forward 41 years. I brushed pretty much everyday but hated flossing. I mean hated flossing. Over the years I can recall going for a couple of cleanings but nothing more. So long story short, my teeth were failing me and I became one of those people that always had Ora-Gel, Ambesol, and the nastiest of all, clove oil on their person at all times! After friends finally convinced me to seek help I decided to listen to them which led me to Aspen Dental. My saving grace!
Now at 51 years of age I was in a position to need a top denture and 2 bridges on the bottom! I was scared to death when I realized I had to have 13 teeth removed! Yes, I panicked! My mind raced with fear of the shots and the pain! But mostly I panicked because of how I'd look afterwards. So I put on my big boy shorts, called my primary Doctor for a sedative and made that inevitable appointment to start my journey. I had but one request of Dr. Schafer. I didn't want my denture to make me look like Gary Bussey! I just wanted a nice set of chops!
The day of the tooth removal turned out to be much different than I'd imagined. I only felt the first 2 shots. Dr. Schafer and his assistant Paige were wonderful! I actually felt nothing during the procedure. The following 2 days I only felt sore. No screaming pain whatsoever! Yay!
The healing process has taken almost a year with the first 6 months being the truest period of adjustment. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't a picnic by any means. However, here's what I've learned that I feel pertinent to my review. 1) Forgive yourself. I experienced much guilt that my lackadaisical attitude towards oral hygiene was so lax. I was livid that I put myself in this position. 2) Please understand from me that you'll get through it. Eventually you will be able to see the forest through the trees. 3) Weigh out your options. Is it better to risk living with bad oral hygiene that leads to physical problems? The bacteria that causes plaque can induce heart attacks. Let's not forget the stress from living with pain! 4) Do you want to SMILE?
About 3 months into my adventure I was sitting on my bed and I opened my nightstand. Looking down I saw all the bottles of Ambesol, tubes of Ora-Gel, and bottles of clove oil which is the nastiest tasting stuff. At first I started to laugh, then believe it or not, I began roar in laughter! All that pain was done! No more spitting nasty tasting junk in the sink. No more drinking room temperature water. No more pangs of sudden agony!I was free.
Finally, the most profound moment was around 6 months into my journey. I was on social media and saw a picture of myself on my friend's page. I immediately burst into tears! Why? Because in this photo I noticed something of a miracle. I was smiling! OMG! There is no photographic evidence of me smiling in a picture from about the age of 10 to the present! For me, that's the BIGGEST change! I can express myself naturally! No keeping my mouth shut during picture time with my family and friends! I started smiling almost everywhere I went! Even my family and friends took notice!
BOTTOMLINE, just do it! Dr. Schafer and all his staff have been exceedingly professional, pleasant, and accommodating! They understood my apprehension and fears and went above and beyond to make my journey as comfortable as possible! There's not enough words to express my gratitude for the staff at Aspen Dental Valparaiso! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Very quick and great staff
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a long-term and natural-looking way to replace one or more missing teeth. Designed to match the shape and color of your natural teeth, a bridge helps restore your smile with a seamless look. Beyond appearance, bridges support your oral health too—making it easier to chew, speak clearly and keep your teeth properly aligned.
What types of dental bridges are there?
Not sure which bridge is right for you? The best option depends on where your missing tooth is, how healthy your teeth are, and the health of your surrounding structure.Traditional, fixed bridge
This is the most common option. It uses crowns on both sides of the gap to hold the replacement tooth in place. Traditional bridges are strong and durable, making them a trusted choice for patients missing one or more teeth in the same area.
Cantilever bridge
Used when there is only one natural tooth next to the gap, a cantilever bridge relies on a single anchor tooth for support. While less common, it can be effective when other options are not available.
Maryland bridge
This conservative option attaches the replacement tooth using porcelain or metal wings bonded to the back of neighboring teeth. It requires less preparation but may not be as durable for areas that take heavy chewing pressure.
Implant-supported bridge
The most stable option, this type uses dental implants instead of natural teeth for support. Implant-supported bridges provide excellent strength and longevity, making them ideal for patients seeking a permanent solution.
What are the benefits of a dental bridge?
Restores your smile
Bridges restore the look of your teeth and help you smile with confidence again.Improves chewing
A bridge makes it easier to chew, so you can get back to eating the meals you love.Maintains oral health
Filling the gap prevents surrounding teeth from shifting out of place and helps protect your bite.What’s the process of getting a dental bridge at Aspen Dental office in Valparaiso, IN?
Many patients can complete treatment in as few as two visits. Here’s what the process may look like:Consultation
We’ll examine your oral health and create a personalized care plan.
Digital scan
Impressions of your teeth are taken for a precise fit.
Temporary bridge
A temporary bridge protects your smile while your permanent bridge is made.
Permanent bridge
Your custom bridge is placed and adjusted for comfort and function.
Follow-up
We’ll check your bite and make sure everything feels right.
Why choose Aspen Dental in Valparaiso, IN for your dental bridge?
¹The Aspen Dental Savings Plan is NOT insurance. Please see plan terms and conditions for details.
How much do dental bridges cost in Valparaiso, IN?
On average, Aspen Dental patients pay $3,769² for a dental bridge. Your exact cost may vary depending on factors like the type of bridge, the materials used, where it’s placed and your individual treatment plan. To get a personalized estimate, schedule a consultation with your local Aspen Dental team. If you have dental insurance, check with your provider to see what your plan may cover.
²This average price is an approximation based on 2026 internal data and may not reflect the actual cost you will encounter due to individual factors. Price range varies from $2,673 to $5,857. For location specific pricing, please click here.
Dental bridge in Valparaiso, IN FAQs
Explore answers to common questions so you know what to expect—before, during and after your dental bridge visit at Aspen Dental in Valparaiso.A dental bridge can replace one to four missing teeth in a row, depending on your needs and the health of surrounding teeth.
In many cases, a dental bridge can be completed in just two visits. Your dentist will guide you through the timeline based on your care plan.
Brush twice a day, floss carefully around the bridge and keep up with regular dental check-ups at Aspen Dental. Your dentist may also recommend special cleaning tools to keep it in top shape.
Yes. Once your bridge is placed, you should be able to chew comfortably and enjoy your regular diet again.
Yes. Filling the gap left by missing teeth can make it easier to pronounce words clearly and chew your food effectively.