What is a dental bridge? Options in Chevy Chase, MD to fill the gaps in your smile
Do gaps mar your smile (and self-confidence)? Are you holding on to badly damaged, aching teeth? Health 360 Dental in Chevy Chase, MD, is pleased to offer tooth replacement that restores your appearance and transforms your quality of life. Dental bridges represent one of the most time-tested ways to replace teeth. Drs Erick Hosaka and Valerie Cassis have rebuilt teeth with both “traditional” bridges and “modern” bridges that are supported by dental implants placed in the jaws.
Bridge the gap
A bridge over a road or water spans two points. Likewise, a dental bridge spans two points – the teeth on either side of the space where another tooth used to be. These neighboring or abutment teeth “anchor” the replacement tooth (“pontic”). To adequately support the pontic, these abutments must be crowned. The abutment teeth must be reduced slightly in size. That allows for the crowns to fit over the natural teeth properly. The crowns and pontic in a “standard” bridge are connected. So, when those crowns are fitted over the neighboring teeth and cemented in place, the fused pontic fills the gap between the abutments. The crowned abutments hold the new tooth in place.
Dental Bridge
With proper care, bridges can last several years – even a lifetime! It is important to keep the area beneath the bridge clean and free of decay-causing bacteria and plaque. We will recommend products such as floss threaders to clean these hard-to-reach spaces effectively and efficiently. Our team is happy to demonstrate techniques to support the sustained health of your new tooth.
Implant-supported bridges
At Health 360 Dental, we are privileged to offer tooth replacement for all budgets, lifestyles, needs, and goals. You may be a suitable candidate for dental implants. Instead of being supported by crowned neighboring teeth, bridges may be retained or stabilized with dental implants strategically placed and positioned in the jaw. The implant is made from a biocompatible material that joins naturally to surrounding bone in the jaw over time. Once implants are effectively part of the jaw, they can “root” the overlying bridgework in the jaw. Your new teeth are secure. Since they are designed like natural teeth, no special hygiene techniques or products are necessary to keep the bridge clean and healthy.
Dental Bridges FAQs
How does a dental bridge replace a missing tooth?
A dental bridge restores a gap by securing a replacement tooth between two stable supports. At Health 360 Dental in Chevy Chase, MD, Dr. Erick Hosaka and Dr. Valerie Cassis design bridges so they integrate naturally with surrounding teeth. The neighboring teeth or dental implants act as anchors, stabilizing the artificial tooth and restoring both appearance and chewing function.
What is the difference between a traditional bridge and an implant-supported bridge?
A traditional bridge relies on adjacent natural teeth for support. These neighboring teeth are carefully reshaped and crowned to hold the replacement tooth in place. An implant-supported bridge, by contrast, is anchored to dental implants placed in the jawbone. Implant support eliminates the need to alter healthy adjacent teeth and provides strong, root-like stability.
When is a dental bridge recommended instead of an implant?
Bridges may be recommended when surrounding teeth already require crowns, when bone support is insufficient for implants, or when patients prefer a faster treatment timeline. Drs. Hosaka and Cassis evaluate bone health, neighboring teeth, and long-term goals before recommending the most appropriate replacement option.
How long does it take to complete a dental bridge?
Traditional bridges typically require two visits. During the first appointment, the supporting teeth are prepared, and impressions are taken. A temporary restoration may be placed while the final bridge is fabricated. At the second visit, the permanent bridge is fitted, adjusted, and securely cemented. Implant-supported bridges require additional healing time if implants are placed first.
Will a dental bridge look natural?
Modern bridges are crafted from high-quality materials that mimic the color and light-reflecting qualities of natural enamel. Each restoration is custom-designed to blend with your existing smile. Attention is given to shape, shade, and contour to ensure the replacement tooth complements surrounding teeth rather than standing out.
How long can a dental bridge last?
With consistent oral hygiene and professional care, bridges can function successfully for many years. Longevity depends on daily cleaning habits, bite forces, and overall gum health. Routine examinations at Health 360 Dental allow early detection of wear or underlying concerns.
Is caring for a bridge difficult?
Keeping the area beneath the artificial tooth clean is essential. Special tools such as floss threaders or interdental brushes may be recommended for traditional bridges. Implant-supported bridges typically allow for more conventional brushing and flossing techniques. Our team demonstrates the most effective cleaning methods to protect your investment.
Can a bridge improve my ability to chew and speak?
Yes. Missing teeth can shift bite balance and alter speech patterns. Replacing a tooth restores proper spacing and helps evenly distribute chewing forces. Many patients notice improved comfort when eating and greater confidence when speaking after bridge placement.
What happens if a missing tooth is not replaced?
Leaving a gap can lead to shifting teeth, bite misalignment, bone loss, and increased stress on remaining teeth. Over time, this may contribute to additional restorative needs. Replacing missing teeth helps preserve overall oral stability.
How do I know which tooth replacement option is best for me?
The best approach depends on your oral health, bone structure, lifestyle, and goals. At Health 360 Dental in Chevy Chase, MD, we provide personalized consultations to compare traditional bridges, implant-supported bridges, and alternative treatments. A comprehensive evaluation ensures your replacement solution supports both long-term function and aesthetics.
To find out more about your options to replace a badly decayed or missing tooth, schedule an appointment at our Bethesda and DC-area offices. Call (301) 657-2225.
Dr. Erick Hosaka, DDS, MBA, FAGD
Dr. Erick Hosaka is a fourth-generation dentist with over 28 years of experience in Chevy Chase. He holds an MBA from Johns Hopkins University and is a Fellow of the American Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Hosaka's commitment to excellence has earned him recognition as a Top Dentist by Washingtonian Magazine and Bethesda Magazine. He is known for his expertise and patient-centered care. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his daughter and watching the Ravens.
Dr. Valerie Cassis, DMD
Dr. Valerie Cassis is a compassionate and skilled dentist who graduated from the University of Pennsylvania's School of Dental Medicine. She further honed her expertise through a General Practice Residency at Abington Memorial Hospital near Philadelphia. Now proudly serving the Bethesda community, Dr. Cassis is dedicated to providing personalized care to her patients. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new restaurants, crocheting, drawing, and spending time with her beloved cat, Amelia.
Dr. Andrea Valencia, DDS,
Dr. Andrea Valencia, DDS, is a dedicated and accomplished dentist with a strong foundation in cosmetic dentistry and facial esthetics. A native of Bethesda, MD, she earned her dental degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry in 2022. She completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the University of Texas in Houston. Dr. Valencia began her career in Denver before returning to the Washington Metropolitan area. As a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, she is committed to providing exceptional care.