(215) 677-2401
You might remember hearing about London Bridge falling down as a kid, but you don’t want to be singing any songs about your dental bridge falling out. Dental bridges can be an excellent way to replace several consecutive missing teeth. They can last more than fifteen years with proper maintenance, but insufficient care can cause them to need repairs or replacement. Here are a few reasons why dental bridges fail and what you can do if it happens.
What Can Cause a Dental Bridge to Fail?
A few especially notable threats to your dental bridge include:
Poor oral hygiene
Dental bridges require proper oral hygiene to remain healthy, and neglecting to provide this care is one of the most common reasons why they fail. A dental bridge is anchored to the teeth on either side of the gap. If these teeth begin to decay, they can lose their grip on the appliance, causing it to come loose or fall out.
Bruxism
Teeth grinding can be a response to stress when awake or an involuntary action while sleeping. The frequent pressure and friction this causes can wear away or break your dental bridge. This can be prevented by being mindful of your grinding habits, undergoing treatment for its root psychological causes, or wearing a mouthguard when sleeping.
Poor construction
Dental bridges should be of high quality if they are to last for a long time. Unfortunately, a lab that manufactures them can make errors during the process.
When Should I Get My Dental Bridge Fixed?
If you notice a crack in one of the teeth supporting your bridge or find that pieces of porcelain have broken off the artificial teeth, your bridge may require repair. Experiencing pain or sensitivity while chewing or brushing warrants an emergency dental appointment as soon as possible. If your restoration is coming loose, avoid taking any advice for DIY repairs you might find online. Any adjustments or repairs should be performed by a qualified dentist.
If your bridge fails due to damage to the abutment teeth, these teeth will have to be treated before the bridge can be replaced. If these teeth cannot be saved, they can possibly be replaced with implants that can support a new bridge. Teeth with chips or fractures can sometimes be repaired individually.
To keep your bridge in working order for the longest possible time, you will need to take good care of it. This includes brushing at least twice a day to prevent decay of the abutment teeth. Dentists often recommend using a specialized flossing device to clean the gap between the gums and the bridge. With proper maintenance practices, you can have more than a decade with your bridge completing your beautiful smile.
About the Practice
Dentex Dental Group provides world-class dental care to the people of Philadelphia, PA. Led by a team of five dentists, the staff provides patients with the best customer service in a comfortable and compassionate environment. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry such as dental bridges. For more information on caring for your dental bridge, contact the office online or dial (215) 677-3904.