Your teeth play a critical role in your ability to chew food, enunciate words, and smile confidently. If you have a gap in your grin from one or several consecutively missing teeth, you might feel so self-conscious about your dental condition that you avoid spending time with other people.
Fortunately, your dentist can provide a dental bridge that’s customized to look just like the teeth that went missing, so no one can tell there was ever an issue to begin with. Plus, these restorations can last for years, though it depends on how well it’s maintained. Continue reading to learn more about extending the lifespan of your dental bridge!
What is a Dental Bridge?
This oral appliance contains the correct number of pontics (artificial teeth) to fill in the gap in your grin. These are bookended on each end by a dental crown that will anchor them to healthy abutment teeth or dental implants on either side of the space in your smile. It’s ideal for replacing anywhere from one to four lost teeth in a row.
There are two types of dental bridges: removable and fixed. Removable options typically clip onto existing teeth but must be taken out twice daily to be cleaned. Fixed bridges, meanwhile, are cemented in place and can’t be taken out except by your dentist. Both options can be made out of durable porcelain or resin that reflects light like enamel and can be color-matched to your natural teeth.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
Typically, you can expect your dental bridge to last 5 to 10+ years, depending on how well you care for it. Whether your restoration is bonded in place or intended to be removed, it’s imperative to thoroughly but gently brush it twice daily and floss between your teeth and along your bridge. Remember to use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste that won’t harm the material.
Some additional tips that can extend the lifespan of your prosthetics include:
- Watching what you eat. Avoid overly hard, chewy, alcoholic, super acidic, or sugary foods that could dislodge your dental bridge or erode the cement.
- Don’t use teeth as tools. Teeth are intended to chew food, not nibble pen caps or open packages and letters. You might chip, crack, or lose your restoration if you misuse it.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Scheduling a routine checkup and cleaning every six months allows your dentist to spot and treat any issues that could cause your bridge to fail, like weakening enamel or gum disease in the abutment teeth.
Making these simple adjustments to your daily habits can keep your dental bridge looking and feeling great for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Bobby Shirley has about 20 years of experience providing a wide array of services to help families build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and then joined Distinctive Dentistry in 2005. Today, he’s a member of the American Dental Association and several other prestigious organizations so you can trust that your grin is in good hands. His family-friendly office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to quickly devise and deliver personalized treatment plans to meet your unique needs, including providing customized restorations. If you need a dental bridge, you can request a consultation on the website or call (770) 445-6606.
