Restorative Dentistry
Dental Bridges
A missing tooth leaves more than a gap in your smile — it changes the way your other teeth line up, the way you chew, and the way your jaw supports itself over time.
Reviewed by Dr. Sang Kim, DMD — Updated April 2026
How dental bridges work
A dental bridge literally bridges the space left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of an artificial tooth — called a pontic — held in place by crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap. These anchor teeth, known as abutments, provide the structural support the bridge needs to handle everyday chewing forces. At Bridgewater Dental Center, Dr. Sang Kim custom-designs each bridge so it matches your natural teeth in shape, shade, and alignment. Patients across Bridgewater, Harrisonburg, and the broader Shenandoah Valley trust our team to restore their smiles with precision and care.
Traditional vs. implant-supported bridges
The right type of bridge depends on how many teeth are missing, where they are, and the health of the surrounding structures.
- Traditional bridges — The most common option. Crowns are placed on the natural teeth adjacent to the gap, and the pontic fills the space between them. This approach works well when the abutment teeth are strong and healthy enough to support the restoration.
- Implant-supported bridges— When multiple teeth are missing in a row, or when the adjacent teeth aren't ideal candidates for crowns, implants can serve as the anchors instead. This preserves healthy tooth structure and provides exceptional stability. Dr. Kim will evaluate your bone density and overall oral health to determine if implants are a good fit.
Caring for your bridge
A bridge requires the same daily attention as natural teeth — brushing twice a day and flossing carefully around the abutment teeth and beneath the pontic. A floss threader or water flosser makes cleaning under the bridge straightforward. Regular checkups at our Bridgewater office let Dr. Kim monitor the fit, check for any signs of decay on the abutment teeth, and ensure the bridge continues to function as it should. With consistent care, a well-made bridge can last ten to fifteen years or more.
Wondering whether a bridge is the best way to replace your missing tooth? Call Bridgewater Dental Center at 540-443-2659 to schedule a consultation, or explore our full range of restorative services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a dental bridge last?+
With consistent brushing, flossing, and regular checkups at our Bridgewater office, a well-made bridge typically lasts ten to fifteen years. Some patients keep their bridges even longer with excellent home care.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?+
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel any pain during treatment. Most patients experience only mild sensitivity for a day or two afterward. Sedation is available if you need extra comfort.
What is the difference between a bridge and an implant?+
A bridge anchors a replacement tooth to the natural teeth on either side of the gap, while an implant is a standalone post placed directly into the jawbone. Dr. Kim will help you decide which option is the best fit based on your oral health and goals.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?+
Yes. Once your bridge is fully placed and adjusted, you can eat most foods comfortably. We recommend easing into harder or stickier foods during the first week and cutting food into smaller pieces while you adjust.
How do I clean under a dental bridge?+
A floss threader or water flosser makes it easy to clean beneath the pontic — the replacement tooth. Daily cleaning under the bridge prevents plaque buildup and protects the abutment teeth that support it.
Does dental insurance cover bridges?+
Most dental plans cover a portion of bridge treatment when it's considered medically necessary. Our Bridgewater team will verify your benefits ahead of time so you know exactly what to expect before we begin.
Ready When You Are
Let's write the next chapter
of your smile's story.
Schedule an appointment online, or give us a call. We're accepting new patients of every age — and we'll walk you through every step.