If you’ve struggled with tooth loss, you know just how hard it can be to complete daily tasks, like eating, speaking, and smiling. The good news is that you don’t need to go the rest of your life with unsightly gaps in your smile, as there are a variety of tooth replacement options out there to choose from. One thing that you will want to consider is how long your restoration will last. Continue reading to learn about dental bridges and how long you can expect them to remain strong.
What’s the Average Lifespan of Dental Bridges?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, dental bridges typically have a lifespan between five and seven years, but they can last longer depending on the type of bridge you get. Other sources claim that most bridges last longer than ten years if they are cared for correctly with proper oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and gentle eating.
Why Do Bridges Fail Over Time?
Dental bridges rely on the surrounding teeth in order to be successful. This is because the adjacent teeth are filed down to fit crowns over them that support the replacement tooth. However, this increases the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and the need for root canals in these surrounding teeth. If a supporting tooth fails, so does the bridge.
How Can You Prevent Dental Bridge Failures?
Proper care is a necessary step to prevent your dental bridge from failing. Here are some important steps that you should be taking:
- Excellent Oral Hygiene: Just like how you care for your other teeth, it is important to brush twice and floss once daily. In addition to this, you should do some extra flossing underneath and around your bridge to keep food debris and plaque from building up and leading to gum disease. This helps to keep the gums healthy beneath the bridge as well as maintaining the supporting teeth.
- Smart Food Choices: Stick to tooth-friendly items and avoid foods that may put too much stress on the bridge. Limit sugary and starchy foods and don’t forget to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber in your diet. Stay away from nuts, caramel, popcorn, and sticky candy that may place excessive pressure on the bridge when chewing.
- Visit Your Dentist: Remember to continue attending regular dental appointments. Your dentist will check your bridge to ensure that the surrounding area is in healthy shape. Cleanings will help to remove plaque in hard-to-reach areas.
Dental bridges won’t last forever, but they are a great option for some patients. With proper care, they can remain strong for several years down the line.
About the Practice
At Crossroads Family Dentistry, we have a team of four experienced dentists eager to provide personalized care to all of our patients. With their combined skillsets, patients can get pretty much anything they need all in one convenient location. To learn more about dental bridges or to schedule an appointment at our office in Forest, visit our website or call (434) 841-1704.