David Bridgeman named WVDA’s 2025 Bridgeman Distinguished Dentist

West Virginia Press Association

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Dr. David F. Bridgeman of New Martinsville has been honored with the prestigious Dr. Robert B. Bridgeman Distinguished Dentist Award at the 2025 West Virginia Dental Association’s Winter Meeting held at the Embassy Suites in Charleston.

Dr. Bridgeman, a 1973 graduate of Magnolia High School, continued his education as a West Liberty State College Hilltopper and graduated from West Virginia University Dental School in 1980. He is a proud member of Psi Omega Fraternity and Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity, both esteemed social-dental organizations.

Throughout his career, Dr. Bridgeman has made significant contributions to the WVU School of Dentistry, serving on both the Visiting Committee and the Board of Governors of the WVU School of Dentistry Alumni Association. His dedication to organized dentistry is evident through his leadership roles, including President of the Marshall-Wetzel-Tyler Dental Society and President of the West Virginia Dental Association in 1983.

Dr. Bridgeman practiced as a solo practitioner in New Martinsville, West Virginia, and is part of a distinguished family legacy of dentists who have served their communities with excellence. His honorary fellowships include The American College of Dentists, The International College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. In 2004, he was awarded the American Academy of Gold Foil Operators’ Clinician of the Year Award.

Since the early 1980s, Dr. Bridgeman has actively participated in clinical professional organizations, striving for operative excellence. He has served as a clinical operator, lecturer, and mentor in various esteemed organizations, including the Hollenback-Medina Operative Dentistry Seminar, the American Academy of Gold Foil Operators, the Richard V. Tucker Academy of Cast Gold Study Clubs, and the Academy of Operative Dentistry.

“David is one of the most clinically superior dentists I know. He has, in fact, grown up under the tutelage of his father who accepted nothing but the very best from those he encountered not only in dentistry but in life,” remarked Dr. David G. Edwards, the 2023 recipient of the Bridgeman Award.

Congratulations, Dave! Your relentless pursuit of excellence and dedication to your profession, patients, and community have earned you this well-deserved recognition. The WVDA is grateful for your lifetime of service.

For more information, please contact: West Virginia Dental Association, Hallie Mason, 304-344-5246 or [email protected]