Restore your complete smile with Dental Bridges—custom-crafted restorations designed to replace missing teeth and enhance both function and appearance.
A missing tooth is never just a cosmetic problem. Within months of tooth loss, the surrounding teeth begin to drift toward the gap, bite forces redistribute unevenly, and the bone beneath the empty socket starts to resorb. A dental bridge stops that chain reaction by filling the space with a fixed, natural-looking restoration anchored to the teeth on either side.
At Church Family Dentistry in Durham, NC, Dr. Will Church places dental bridges as part of a comprehensive approach to restorative dentistry that prioritizes preserving your natural teeth and maintaining long-term oral health. If you are missing one or more consecutive teeth, a bridge may be the most practical and cost-effective solution available to you.
A dental bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns cemented onto the natural teeth on either side of the gap (abutment teeth). The result is a fixed, non-removable restoration that looks and functions like your natural teeth. Modern bridges are crafted from porcelain or ceramic materials matched closely to your surrounding tooth shade.
Dr. Church will recommend the bridge type that best fits your anatomy, the location of the missing tooth, and the health of your surrounding teeth:
There are several types of dental bridges, and Dr. Church will recommend the option that best suits your oral health situation and aesthetic goals.
The most common type, using crowns on the adjacent natural teeth to support the replacement teeth. Highly effective for most cases of tooth loss, with excellent stability for chewing and speaking.
A more conservative option for patients with healthy adjacent teeth that do not require crowns. These bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, requiring minimal tooth preparation.
Recommended when only one adjacent tooth is available to support the restoration, offering a solution when a traditional two-abutment bridge is not an option.
Anchored to dental implants placed in the jawbone rather than natural teeth, this option may be recommended for patients missing several consecutive teeth who want to avoid altering healthy adjacent teeth.
Getting a dental bridge at Church Family Dentistry typically requires two appointments spaced two to three weeks apart. Here is what to expect:
With proper care, a well-made dental bridge can last ten to fifteen years or more. Regular checkups and careful flossing beneath the pontic are the two most important factors in extending its lifespan.
Beyond filling the visible gap, a dental bridge delivers several important functional and structural benefits. It restores full chewing ability across the affected area, prevents adjacent teeth from drifting into the empty space, maintains your facial shape by preserving bone stimulation through the abutment teeth, and eliminates the speech difficulties that often accompany missing front teeth. For patients who want a fixed solution without the timeline and cost of implants, a bridge is often the right answer.
Bridges require the same daily care as natural teeth, with one additional step: cleaning beneath the pontic. Use a floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser to remove plaque from under the bridge daily. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and attend regular cleanings at our office. Avoid biting very hard objects like ice directly on the bridge, which may fracture the porcelain over time.
Dental bridges are often compared against dental implants and partial dentures as tooth replacement options. Implants are the most comprehensive long-term solution — they replace the root, preserve the bone, and require no alteration of adjacent teeth. Bridges are faster, less invasive, and significantly less expensive upfront. Partial dentures are removable and may feel less stable but are a reasonable option when multiple non-consecutive teeth are missing or when implants are not indicated. Dr. Church will walk you through all three options and give you an honest recommendation based on your specific situation.
Maintaining your dental bridge is straightforward and similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, paying special attention to the area where the bridge meets your gumline. Floss daily using a floss threader or interdental brush to clean beneath the pontic and around the abutment teeth, removing food particles and plaque that can lead to decay or gum disease.
Schedule regular dental cleanings and examinations at Church Family Dentistry so Dr. Church can monitor your bridge and ensure it continues to fit properly. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pen caps, which can damage the bridge material. If you notice any looseness, discomfort, or changes in your bite, contact our office promptly for evaluation.
While dental bridges are an excellent solution for many patients, Dr. Church offers alternative treatments depending on your unique circumstances. Dental implants provide a permanent, standalone replacement that doesn’t require altering adjacent teeth, making them ideal for patients who want the most natural-feeling restoration.
Partial dentures offer a removable option for patients missing multiple non-consecutive teeth or those who may not be candidates for bridges or implants. During your consultation, Dr. Church will discuss all available options, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your oral health needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Dr. Will Church’s approach to restorative dentistry emphasizes building lasting relationships with his patients while delivering exceptional clinical outcomes. Unlike practices that rush through treatment planning, Dr. Church takes time to understand your individual concerns and creates personalized solutions that address your specific needs. His investment in state-of-the-art technology, including advanced imaging and diagnostic tools, ensures precise treatment planning and predictable results.
Patients appreciate Dr. Church’s commitment to transparency throughout the treatment process. He explains each step in detail, answers your questions thoroughly, and ensures you feel confident and comfortable with your care decisions. Located near Duke Regional Hospital, our Durham practice combines cutting-edge dental technology with genuine, compassionate patient care that makes a difference.
Missing teeth don’t have to compromise your quality of life or oral health. With dental bridges from Church Family Dentistry, you can restore your smile’s function, appearance, and integrity. Dr. Church and his team are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health through personalized restorative solutions that fit your unique situation.
We understand that dental treatment represents an investment in your health and well-being. That’s why we offer flexible financing options through Cherry, Sunbit, and Proceed, making quality restorative care accessible to more Durham families. Whether you’re dealing with recent tooth loss or have been living with gaps in your smile for years, we’re here to help you explore your options and take the next step toward a complete, confident smile.
Ready to learn more about dental bridges? Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Church. Together, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan that restores your smile and supports your long-term oral health goals.
Experience the difference that advanced technology and compassionate care can make. At Church Dentistry, we’re committed to providing Durham residents with exceptional dental care in a comfortable, modern environment. Whether you need a routine cleaning, cosmetic enhancement, or complex restorative work, our team is here to help you achieve optimal oral health and the confident smile you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover why patients throughout Durham trust us with their smiles.
When you visit Church Family Dentistry, you’re in the hands of a dentist who approaches every appointment with genuine curiosity about your goals — not just your teeth. Dr. Will Church combines advanced training from UNC with a deep passion for cutting-edge dental technology, creating an environment where patients feel heard, valued, and confident in every decision they make about their care.
Quality dental care should be accessible to everyone. At Church Family Dentistry, we work hard to make treatment fit your budget — whether you have insurance, prefer financing, or simply want flexible payment solutions.
While we are proudly out-of-network, we file PPO benefits on your behalf to maximize your savings. We accept and process most major dental insurance plans — Medicaid, Tricare, and VA are the only exceptions.
We offer multiple financing options so care stays within reach — from simple out-of-pocket costs to larger treatment investments. Apply in minutes and get a decision quickly.
We happily accept Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts. Use your pre-tax dollars for any dental procedure — from routine cleanings to cosmetic treatment and implants.
Questions about your coverage? Call us at (919) 220-6553 — we’re happy to verify your benefits before your appointment.
At Church Family Dentistry, every patient’s experience matters deeply to us. Hear firsthand why Durham families trust Dr. Church with their smiles.
Church Family Dentistry is conveniently located in Durham, NC — right next to Duke Regional Hospital, with comfortable operatories overlooking beautifully wooded surroundings.
Address
2711 N Duke St #B
Durham, NC 27704
Phone
(919) 220-6553
Schedule Online
Request an Appointment
| Monday | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Taking the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile is simple. Call our Durham office or request an appointment online — we’re here to answer your questions and create a personalized plan that fits your life.
Whether you’re a new patient or returning for care, Dr. Church and his team will take time to truly understand your goals before recommending any treatment.
The content on this website has been reviewed by Dr. Will Church for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment outcomes vary based on individual needs and clinical factors. Contact Church Family Dentistry at (919) 220-6553 for personalized care or dental emergencies.
