How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?

As with most things, the life of your dental bridge depends largely upon how well you care for it. Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth and depend on the health and structure of neighboring teeth for support. Every case is different but some dental bridges can last for up to 15 years or even a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.

Why could my dental bridge fail?

Since bridges to use other teeth for support, the health of those supporting teeth is very important. Most of the time, the two teeth on either side of the space to be filled have to have a crown placed in order to hold the fake tooth in position. This means that the healthy teeth have to be prepared for crowns which involves removing some of the enamel on all surfaces to allow room for the crown to fit over the tooth as snugly as possible. This prepping of healthy teeth could leave them compromised and susceptible to gum disease and decay. Flossing under the bridge can be a bit challenging but if it is not done well and regularly, the tooth can still develop decay or infection. If a supporting tooth fails, the bridge will need to be replaced.

How can I help prevent my bridge from failing?

Avoiding foods that can cause dental decay is the first step! Anything sticky or crunchy should be avoided but that is not always easy. Try to be conscious of what you are eating and chew on the other side of your mouth to avoid putting excessive pressure on your dental bridge. Sticking to a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will help your teeth stay healthy and strong. You will also want to make sure that you follow your Dentist’s care instructions to the letter!

How do I care for my dental bridge?

Oral hygiene is a major factor in bridge care. Your Dentist will teach you how to floss around and under your bridge to make sure everything is being well cared for. There are floss threaders that most patients use to get the floss under their bridge so the can access the supporting teeth and make sure no food particles linger under the pontic. You will also benefit from regular visits to your dental office for professional cleanings at least every six months. Your Dentist may advise you to begin using oral care products that contain fluoride to help strengthen your teeth.

With proper care and attentive eating habits, there is no reason that your dental bridge can’t last at least ten years. If your bridge ever becomes loose, call your Dentist so you can have it checked. If it should fall out, your Dentist can recement it but be prepared to have a new one fabricated. Dental bridges are a great option when dental implants are not right for you. Speak with your Dentist so together, you can determine your best treatment option.

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