Dental Bridges in Fairfax, VA
Restore Your Smile with Natural-Looking Tooth Replacement by Dr. Caitlin Hulver at Metropolitan Dental Centre
Missing a tooth—or several? A dental bridge is a trusted, long-lasting solution for filling the gap left behind by one or more missing teeth. At Metropolitan Dental Centre in Fairfax, VA, Dr. Caitlin Hulver offers custom-crafted dental bridges designed to restore your smile’s strength, appearance, and function, while preventing further dental complications.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth (called a pontic) to the natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap. The supporting teeth—known as abutments—are typically crowned to hold the bridge securely in place.
Bridges are commonly used to:
- Restore a full, functional smile
- Prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position
- Maintain proper bite alignment
- Preserve facial shape and jaw health
- Improve chewing and speech
Types of Dental Bridges We Offer
At Metropolitan Dental Centre, we offer several types of bridges depending on your needs:
Traditional Bridge:
Anchored to crowns on adjacent natural teeth. This is the most common type and ideal for replacing one or more consecutive teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridge:
Attached to dental implants instead of natural teeth. This option provides superior strength and does not rely on altering healthy adjacent teeth.
Cantilever Bridge:
Used when there’s only one adjacent tooth to support the bridge. Less common but effective in certain cases.
Dr. Hulver will carefully evaluate your oral health and recommend the best type of bridge for your specific situation.
The Dental Bridge Process
Getting a dental bridge usually takes two to three visits and involves the following steps:
Visit 1: Preparation and Impressions
The supporting teeth are gently reshaped to receive crowns. Then, digital impressions are taken to design your custom bridge. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect your teeth and gums.
Visit 2: Bridge Placement
Once your bridge is ready, Dr. Hulver will check the fit, color, and bite before permanently bonding it in place. Final adjustments ensure a natural feel and look.
Visit 3 (if needed): Follow-Up
We’ll check your bite and comfort, and provide care tips to help you maintain your new restoration.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Restores a complete, functional smile
- Prevents teeth from shifting into the empty space
- Improves chewing, speech, and bite alignment
- Maintains facial structure and jaw support
- Offers a natural appearance with custom-shaded materials
- More affordable than full implants in some cases
A well-made bridge can last 10–15 years or more with good care.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Maintaining a bridge is easy with daily brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth. Dr. Hulver may recommend a special flossing tool or water flosser to clean underneath the bridge and protect the surrounding gum tissue.
Regular dental visits every six months are essential to monitor the health of your bridge and supporting teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
Is a bridge better than an implant?
It depends on your situation. Implants are often ideal for single-tooth replacement, but bridges are more cost-effective and a great option when adjacent teeth need crowns anyway.
Does getting a bridge hurt?
The procedure is done with local anesthesia, so it’s very comfortable. Most patients report little to no discomfort afterward.
Can you replace an old bridge?
Yes. If your current bridge is worn, loose, or damaged, Dr. Hulver can evaluate it and recommend a modern replacement.
How long will a bridge last?
With proper care, a dental bridge can last 10 years or more, often longer with great oral hygiene.
Restore Your Smile with a Dental Bridge in Fairfax, VA
If you’re missing one or more teeth and ready to restore your smile’s strength and appearance, a dental bridge may be the perfect solution. At Metropolitan Dental Centre, Dr. Caitlin Hulver offers expert care and beautifully designed restorations that help you chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
Metropolitan Dental Centre
10509 Braddock Road, #B, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 503-5031
metropolitandentalcentre.com