Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed, natural-looking restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring a custom prosthetic to your neighboring healthy teeth.
At River Run Dental Spa, our award-winning team provides high-quality dental bridges across our Richmond, Short Pump, Midlothian, Libbie Mill, Charlottesville, Colonial Heights, and Virginia Beach locations.
We combine expert restorative care with a relaxing, spa-like environment so your treatment is completely stress-free. Utilizing advanced iTero digital scanners for goop-free impressions and offering a signature comfort menu, we make replacing a missing tooth a seamless, comfortable experience that restores both the function and confidence of your smile.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a custom prosthetic tooth (pontic) between two crowns placed over the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. Once it is in place, it is fixed. You care for it the same way you care for your natural teeth.
Bridges are color-matched and shaped to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. Most patients find the result looks completely natural.
Is a Bridge Right for You?
A bridge is often a good fit when:
- One or more adjacent teeth are missing
- The neighboring teeth on each side are healthy enough to support a crown
- You prefer a non-surgical option
- You need a faster solution (bridges are typically completed in two visits)
If you are weighing a bridge against a dental implant, our team will walk you through both options honestly at your consultation. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and we will help you find what makes the most sense for your situation.
Bridge or Implant: A Quick Comparison
Both options replace missing teeth effectively. Here is how they differ:
Dental Bridge
- No surgery required
- Completed in two visits over one to two weeks
- Often more affordable upfront
- Typically lasts 10 to 15 years
Dental Implant
- Does not involve altering neighboring teeth
- Helps preserve jawbone density
- Longer lasting — 15 to 25 or more years with proper care
- Requires a surgical placement and a longer treatment timeline
Neither option is universally better. The right choice depends on your oral health, timeline, and goals. We are happy to discuss both at your appointment.
What to Expect: The Two-Visit Process
Getting a bridge takes two appointments, typically spaced one to two weeks apart.
First Visit: Preparation and Scanning
Your dentist will numb the area, so you are entirely comfortable throughout. The teeth on either side of the gap are gently shaped to support the bridge, and an iTero digital scanner is used to take a highly accurate, 3D image of your mouth to create your custom restoration—no messy putty required. A temporary bridge is placed while your permanent one is being crafted.
Second Visit: Final Placement
Your permanent bridge is checked for fit, color, and bite comfort. Once everything looks right, it is cemented in place. Most patients leave with a complete, natural-looking smile the same day.
As with every appointment at River Run, our signature Comfort Menu is available, including aromatherapy, noise-canceling headphones, and a warm blanket. Whatever helps you relax.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are ready to replace a missing tooth, our team can help you find the right solution. We will review your options, answer your questions, and put together a plan that fits your health and your goals, all in the relaxed, spa-like environment River Run is known for.
Dental bridges are available at all of our locations across Virginia. Book online or call your nearest office to get started.
Common Questions About Dental Bridges
How long does a dental bridge last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, most bridges last 10 to 15 years or longer. The condition of the supporting teeth plays a big role in longevity, which is why keeping up with your cleanings matters.
Does insurance cover dental bridges?
Most dental insurance plans cover bridges when a tooth needs to be replaced for functional reasons. River Run has an on-site Benefits Specialist who can review your coverage before your appointment so there are no surprises.
Will it look natural?
Yes. Bridges at River Run are custom-matched to the shade and shape of your surrounding teeth. The goal is always a result that looks and feels completely like your own.
Can I get a bridge if I have had a missing tooth for a long time?
In many cases, yes, though the health of the neighboring teeth and bone structure will be evaluated at your consultation. If significant bone loss has occurred, an implant may be the better long-term option. We will give you a straightforward assessment of what we find.