Naturally, when you get a dental bridge to replace your missing teeth, you’ll want to be able to keep it as long as possible. However, the simple truth is that even replacement teeth made out of the highest-quality material can’t last forever. Your dentist can give you an idea of what the lifespan of your dental bridge will look like, and they can also offer some maintenance tips to help it last longer.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
Many dentists will tell you that the average lifespan of dental bridges is between 7 to 10 years. However, there are also plenty of individuals who have been able to keep their bridges for 20 years or more. Generally speaking, your lifestyle, your daily oral hygiene routine, and the foods you eat on a regular basis all play a role in determining how long your bridge can last.
How Will You Know When Your Dental Bridge Needs to Be Replaced?
Your dental bridge has likely reached the end of its lifespan if you notice any of the following issues:
- The bridge has come loose or has completely fallen off your teeth.
- There are cracks or other types of damage visible.
- The prosthetic teeth and crowns that make up the bridge are noticeably worn down.
If you believe your bridge needs to be replaced, you should schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible. Any existing problems will only grow worse the longer they go unaddressed, and the last thing you want is for your bridge to fail entirely.
How Can You Take Care of Your Dental Bridge?
In order to keep your dental bridge as long as possible, you need to make sure that it stays clean. When you’re brushing and flossing, don’t forget to pay close attention to your bridge and the area around it. It may also be a good idea to start using an antimicrobial mouth rinse to get rid of as much bacteria in your mouth as possible.
You need to be careful when chewing with your dental bridge. Raw vegetables, ice, and other hard foods can cause the bridge to wear down faster. Also, sticky foods such as caramel could pull the bridge off of your teeth. Take the time to review your diet and identify any foods that might cause problems for your bridge; you can then adjust your eating habits as necessary.
Finally, visiting your dentist every six months is an important part of dental bridge maintenance. Your dentist can check the condition of your replacement teeth and identify problems that you might not have noticed yet. They can then take steps to address these issues before they can compromise the bridge.
Dental bridges can last a very long time, but nevertheless, their lifespans are limited. Keep an eye on your dental bridge and take whatever steps you can to protect it if you want to keep it for as long as you can.
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Baldelli loves dentistry because it lets him combine his passion for healthcare with his passion for working with his hands. He went to the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine, and he completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at Boston University. He can replace missing teeth with long-lasting dental bridges. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Baldelli at Newport Dental Associates, visit his website or call (401) 847-7662.