CarolinasDentist Blog

What is a Dental Bridge?

traditional dental bridge

Maintaining a healthy and complete smile is important for oral health and your self confidence. When you lose a tooth, whether due to injury, decay, or other reasons, it can impact both aesthetics and functionality. Fortunately, dental bridges offer a reliable solution to bridge the gap caused by missing teeth, thus restoring your smile and your ability to chew and speak effectively!

How a Dental Bridge Works

A dental bridge is a prosthetic device, designed to fill the space from missing teeth. Consisting of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, a dental bridge is anchored in place by dental crowns or dental implants.

Components of a Dental Bridge: Pontics and Abutments

The artificial teeth that replace the missing ones are called pontics. They are crafted from materials like porcelain, ceramics, or a combination of these materials, ensuring a natural appearance that blends seamlessly with your existing teeth. Additionally, abutments provide support for the bridge structure and can be either natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap.

Types of Dental Bridges

Our offices offer multiple types of dental bridges to restore your smile, including fixed bridges and removable bridges. While you might think one is better than the other, discussing each treatment option is crucial. Fortunately, our experienced team can help you select the best treatment for your particular case.

Fixed Bridges: Sturdy and permanent, fixed bridges restore smiles by securely anchoring a bridge to implants or adjacent structures.

Removable Bridges: Versatile in nature, removable bridges offer flexibility, as you can remove them for cleaning. They are also called partial dentures.

Dr. Laura Johnson, DMD from our Asheville location shows a model of an implant supported bridge.

Benefits of Dental Bridges and Oral Hygiene

Choosing any bridge leads to several benefits, including improved aesthetics, restored functionality, and prevention of shifting teeth. However, maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine check-ups are vital to extend the life of a dental bridge.

Learn More About Dental Bridges At CarolinasDentist

Dental bridges are a reliable and versatile option for restoring a complete and confident smile. We take pride at our CarolinasDentist locations in North Carolina in offering dental bridges among our restorative treatment options. Contact us today to learn more!

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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