DENTAL BRIDGES
BRENTWOOD
FAMILY DENTISTRY
Michael J. Doherty D.D.S., Michael R. Doherty D.D.S., Daniel T. Doherty D.D.S., & James W. Rhea D.D.S.,
Smile Transformation Specialist
Trusted and affordable dentistry
for the entire family.
WHAT IS A DENTAL BRIDGE?
A bridge is a custom-made replacement tooth that fills the space where one or more teeth are missing. Dental bridges literally bridge the gap made by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap. These two or more anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth and have a false tooth or teeth in between. The false teeth are called pontics and can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges can be supported by natural teeth or implants.
ADVANTAGES OF A DENTAL BRIDGE
Many people do not realize that having a missing tooth or missing teeth can affect someone in so many ways. A dental bridge will help:
- Restore your smile
- Restore your ability to chew
- Restore your speech and pronunciation
- Maintain your face’s shape
- Re-adjust your bite
- Prevent your teeth from shifting
THE PROCESS
During your first visit for getting a dental bridge, we begin by preparing the abutment teeth. Preparation involves reshaping these teeth by removing a part of the enamel to allow room for a dental crown to be placed over them. Next, impressions of the teeth are made, which serve as a model from which the bridge, pontic, and crowns will be made by our dental lab. We will make a temporary bridge to wear to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the new bridge is being made. During your next visit, your temporary bridge will be removed and the new porcelain or metal bridge will be checked and adjusted to achieve a proper fit. Multiple visits may be required to check the fit of the metal framework and bite. This is dependent on each individual’s case. If the dental bridge is a fixed bridge, we may temporarily cement it in place for a couple of weeks to make sure it is fitting properly. After a couple weeks, the bridge is cemented into place.
ADVANTAGES OF BRENTWOOD FAMILY DENTISTRY
Are you missing a tooth or even a few teeth? Dr. Rhea and Dr. Doherty have extensive experience creating dental bridges. With our high-tech equipment and expertise, we sculpt bridges with precise accuracy and craftsmanship. Once our lab has fabricated your bridge to our exact design specifications, we will take care to make sure you get the perfect fit and look that you’ve dreamed of. We treat you individually, according to your own unique situation. There is not one type of bridge that is best for everyone. We will respect your time, work within your budget, and let you make the final decision. Your comfort and safety are our primary concern. We will make your teeth healthy, natural looking and beautiful again!
High Tech Methods
to improve your smile
Years Serving
the Community
Years as a
Preferred Invisalign Provider
Testimonials
What People are Saying

“Highly Recommended”
"Highly Recommend. Extremely friendly staff all around which makes going to the dentist a little better. Doctor Doherty is a great dentist and goes out of his way to make you feel comfortable. Excellent work and excellent prices."
Brittany E

“Great Experience”
"Always a great experience with Dr. Rhea! He is very thoughtful and always takes great care of me and my four children. Dr. Doherty is wonderful too. I’ve just had more experience with Dr. Rhea."
Jessica L

“High Quality Care”
"My experience at this dental office is always pleasant. The office staff and doctors are very friendly. They are always on time and do a great job caring for my teeth."
Susan M C.

"Courteous & Friendly"
"Dr. Rhea and all of the staff are very courteous and friendly. I have been going to Dr. Rhea for a few years now and have always been treated well, very professional."
Jessi L
NEW PATIENT FORMS
Save 20 minutes at your first visit by bringing in your completed forms to your 1st appointment! We have made our new patient forms available on this website for your convenience!