Dental bridges in Falls Church, VA
Broadview Dental provides dental bridges in Falls Church, VA to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge is a fixed restoration that spans a gap by joining a replacement tooth to supporting teeth or other appropriate support, depending on the type of bridge recommended.
How a bridge fills a gap, and what happens if the gap is left
When a tooth is missing, the space can affect the way nearby teeth, opposing teeth and your bite function over time. Food may collect around the gap, chewing may feel different and the remaining teeth may be placed under additional stress. If a tooth was removed, learn more about tooth extractions and planning for tooth replacement.
A dental bridge can fill the space created by a missing tooth and provide a fixed replacement option. With a traditional bridge, nearby teeth are prepared to support crowns joined to the replacement tooth. Unlike a removable denture, a fixed bridge stays in place and is removed only by a dental professional.
A traditional bridge requires preparation of the supporting teeth, so it is important to consider the benefits and trade-offs before treatment begins. Dr. Nam will discuss restorative dentistry options that may be appropriate for your smile, including a bridge, partial denture or other tooth-replacement approach.
What getting a dental bridge involves
Dental bridge treatment is often completed in stages, with temporary protection used when appropriate.
Checking the anchor teeth first
Before recommending a bridge, we evaluate the teeth and tissues that may support it. Their condition, existing restorations, gum health, bite and the location of the gap all help determine whether a dental bridge is an appropriate option.
Preparing and taking the impression
For a traditional bridge, the supporting teeth may be prepared for dental crowns, followed by an impression or digital scan. A temporary restoration may be placed while the final bridge is being made, depending on your treatment plan.
The temporary in between
If a temporary bridge is used, it can help protect prepared teeth and maintain the appearance of your smile while the final bridge is being completed. We will give you specific home-care instructions, including advice about eating and cleaning around the temporary restoration.
Fitting the permanent bridge
At the final fitting, we evaluate the bridge’s appearance, fit and bite before it is secured in place. Adjustments may be made as needed so the bridge fits comfortably and functions appropriately with your surrounding teeth.
Cleaning underneath it
Cleaning around and beneath a bridge is an important part of protecting the supporting teeth and gums. A floss threader, super floss, interdental brush or other cleaning aid may be recommended to reach under the replacement tooth. Our team can show you how to care for your bridge based on its design.
Choosing the right kind of bridge for the gap
The right bridge design depends on the number and location of missing teeth, your bite and the condition of nearby teeth.
- A traditional bridgeBEST FORTEETH ON BOTH SIDES
- A traditional bridge uses crowns on teeth beside a gap to support one or more replacement teeth. It may be considered when the supporting teeth are healthy enough to carry the restoration and the bite is appropriate.
- A cantilever bridgeBEST FORA TOOTH ON ONE SIDE
- A cantilever bridge is supported on one side of a missing tooth rather than both sides. It may be considered in selected situations when the location of the gap, the supporting tooth and the bite make this design appropriate.
- A resin-bonded bridgeBEST FORA FRONT TOOTH
- A resin-bonded bridge uses a replacement tooth with a bonded framework that attaches to the back of a neighboring tooth or teeth. It can be a more conservative option in selected cases, often for a missing front tooth when the bite and tooth position allow.
- A partial dentureBEST FORSEVERAL GAPS
- A partial denture can replace several missing teeth and may be a practical option when teeth are missing in more than one area. It is removable, and its design is based on your remaining teeth, gums and treatment goals.
Book a dental bridge at a local dental office near you
If you are living with a gap from a missing tooth, a consultation can help you understand whether a dental bridge is a suitable option. Dr. Nam will evaluate the space, nearby teeth, gums and bite, then discuss tooth-replacement choices based on your oral health and goals.
Broadview Dental is located on West Broad Street in Falls Church, VA, convenient for patients who live or work nearby. Call (571) 584-0020 or use the form below to schedule dental bridges near you.
Dental bridge care with Dr. Nam in Falls Church, VA
Dr. Nam provides dental bridges at Broadview Dental for patients replacing one or more missing teeth. He will evaluate the gap, the supporting teeth, your gums and bite, then explain whether a bridge or another restorative option may be appropriate.
Your bridge treatment may include preparation, impressions or scans, a temporary restoration and follow-up care, depending on the design of the bridge and your individual treatment plan.
Understanding dental bridge costs
The cost of a dental bridge depends on the design, number of replacement teeth, condition of the supporting teeth and any preparation needed before treatment. Your dental benefits may also affect your out-of-pocket cost. Learn more about insurance and payment.
If you do not have dental insurance, our in-house membership plan may be a helpful resource for managing the cost of ongoing dental care. You can also review our current specials for available offers.
Call (571) 584-0020 with questions about dental bridges, payment options or scheduling a consultation.
Patient reviews in Falls Church, VA
Questions about dental bridges
Anything else, just call. We are happy to talk it through before you book.
A dental bridge can last for many years, but longevity varies with the bridge design, bite, oral hygiene, gum health and condition of the supporting teeth. Regular dental visits and cleaning carefully around the bridge can help protect the restoration and the teeth that support it.
Your comfort is important throughout bridge treatment. Local anesthetic may be used when teeth are prepared, and some temporary sensitivity or adjustment to a temporary restoration can occur afterward. Let us know if you have concerns about sensitivity or dental anxiety before your appointment.
A dental bridge can be designed to blend with the shape and shade of surrounding teeth. During planning and fitting, we evaluate the bridge’s appearance, fit and bite so it supports a natural-looking result that is appropriate for your smile.
A dental bridge is a fixed option, while a partial denture is removable. The best choice depends on how many teeth are missing, the health and position of nearby teeth, your gums, bite, budget and personal preferences. Dr. Nam will explain the advantages and limitations of each option for your situation.
A floss threader, super floss, interdental brush or water flosser may help clean beneath and around a bridge. The best method depends on the bridge design and the spaces around it, so our team can show you a cleaning routine that fits your restoration.
If a tooth supporting a bridge develops decay, a fracture, gum disease or another concern, the bridge and supporting tooth will need to be evaluated. Depending on the problem, care may involve repair, replacement of the bridge or another restorative option. Regular preventive care helps us monitor the bridge, supporting teeth and gums.
Where to find us
Broadview Dental is at 101 W Broad St, Suite 200 in Falls Church, VA. We are open Monday to Saturday and welcoming new patients of all ages.
Call us or send the form and we will follow up to arrange a time that suits you.
Request an appointment
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