Dental Bridges in Arlington, VA
A fixed dental bridge replaces a missing tooth by anchoring a false tooth to crowns on the teeth on either side. It is cemented in place, so it does not come out. When a tooth is missing, Dr. Gentry talks with you about both choices, a fixed bridge or a dental implant, and recommends what is best for your teeth, your health, and your goals.
A Fixed Bridge Replacing a Missing Canine
This patient was missing her upper left canine (tooth #11) and wanted to smile again. Dr. Gentry replaced it with a three-tooth zirconia bridge, with crowns on #10 and #12 holding the new canine in between. At the first visit, he prepared the teeth, placed a temporary bridge, and designed the new bridge on the computer. It was milled from zirconia, and one week later, at the second visit, he placed her finished bridge. It matches her natural teeth, and she can smile again. Read the case.
Fixed Bridge
Pros
- No surgery
- Fast: often just two visits, about a week apart
- A good choice when the neighboring teeth already have large fillings or need crowns
- An option when there is not enough bone for an implant, or surgery is not advisable
- Usually costs less up front than an implant
Cons
- The neighboring teeth must be shaped for crowns
- Cleaning under the bridge takes a floss threader or water flosser
- If a supporting tooth has a problem, the whole bridge can be affected
- The bone under the missing tooth can shrink over time
Dental Implant
Pros
- The neighboring teeth are left untouched
- Stands on its own, like a natural tooth
- Helps preserve the bone where the tooth was lost
- Easy to clean and floss
- Can last for many years with good care
Cons
- Requires surgery to place the implant
- Takes longer, often a few months to heal before the crown
- Needs enough healthy bone, sometimes with a bone graft
- Usually costs more up front
Not sure which is right for you? We will examine your teeth, take x-rays, and explain your options honestly. See our implant cases.
Every case photo on our website and blog shows Dr. Gentry's own patient, treated and photographed by Dr. Gentry. We never use stock photos of dental work.
Common Questions About Dental Bridges
What is a fixed dental bridge?
A fixed bridge replaces a missing tooth with a false tooth held between crowns on the teeth on either side. It is cemented in place, so it does not come out.
Should I get a bridge or an implant?
It depends on your teeth and your health. A bridge is faster and needs no surgery, and it makes sense when the neighboring teeth already need crowns. An implant leaves the neighboring teeth untouched and helps preserve bone, but it requires surgery and a few months of healing.
How long does a dental bridge take?
Often just two visits about a week apart: one to prepare the teeth, place a temporary bridge, and design the new bridge on the computer, and one to place the finished bridge.
How do I clean under a bridge?
Brush twice a day and clean under the false tooth every day with a floss threader, super floss, or a water flosser.
Missing a Tooth?
Call us at 703-522-7733 and our team will get to know your needs and find the right appointment for you. We're two blocks from the Court House Metro in Arlington.