If you’re missing one or more consecutive teeth, a dental bridge may be just what you need. These restorations complete your smile, improve your bite, and prevent the other teeth from shifting into the gap. Bridges are a long-lasting solution to missing teeth, but how long can you expect them to last? Read on to learn about the average lifespan of a dental bridge, the different kinds, and how to make them last as long as possible.
Types of Dental Bridges
Though there was once only one method used to hold dental bridges in place, there are now two main types, which are:
- Traditional bridge – These use abutment (anchor) teeth on either side of the gap to hold it in place. Your dentist will need to shape the teeth that the dental crowns will be attached to so they can be placed over them without making your smile look bulky or interfering with your bite. You will likely be given a temporary restoration to protect your teeth and gums in the meantime.
- Implant-supported bridge – Rather than using abutment teeth to hold them in place, these are help in place by dental implants on either side of the gap. This type of restoration is usually recommended for people who have lost three to five teeth in a row, and it will take four to six month for you to heal completely.
How Long Can a Dental Bridge Last?
Now that you know what the different kinds of dental bridges are, how long is the dental bridge lifespan? Though the lifespan of these restorations will vary from person to person, a traditional bridge can be used for five to 15 years on average before is has to be replaced. If you have an implant-supported bridge, the abutments can last a lifetime. The bridge will usually last at least 20 years before you need to have a new one attached. Oral hygiene, your diet, and your lifestyle will influence how long they last.
How to Make Your Dental Bridge Last
There are several things that can cause your dental bridge lifespan to be cut short. For example, if the abutment teeth don’t provide adequate support to the restoration, this can cause it to fail. Though a situation like this will require a visit to your dentist to have the issue corrected, there are several ways to extend the life of your restorations, including:
- Brush – Before you eat breakfast and after your last meal of the day, brush your teeth for two minutes. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damage to your teeth and restorations as well as fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your pearly whites.
- Floss – Every night before you go to bed, floss your teeth and under your dental bridge to remove plaque and food particles that can’t be reached using a toothbrush.
- Avoid unhealthy habits – Don’t chew on non-food items like ice, your nails, or pen caps. You also shouldn’t use your teeth to open bottles and packages.
- Stay away from certain foods – Don’t chew gum, suck on hard candy, or eat sticky and brittle foods, as they can damage the bridge.
- Visit your Dentist – Every six months, visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings so they can ensure that you don’t have any oral health issues developing that may jeopardize your restoration.
As you can see, there are several things that can affect your dental bridge lifespan. By taking good care of your smile, you’ll be able to make your new teeth last!
About the Author
Are you missing one or more teeth in a row and in search of replacement options? Rockville Family Dentistry offers both traditional and implant-supported dental bridges that can help complete your smile. They can also give you tips on how to extend the lifespan of these restorations to make your gorgeous grin last as long as possible. Call (301) 816-9401 or visit their website for more information on dental bridges or to schedule an appointment.