Repairing a Dental Bridge: What Patients Should Know
At Artistic Expressions Dentistry, we offer advanced options for treating tooth loss. Whether this involves custom dental bridges or implant-supported dentures, patients can count on use for exceptional results. Patients who've gotten bridgework or dentures from our practice have been pleased with the results of their treatment.
Many patients ask us how long their bridges will last and what to do if the bridge needs to be repaired. We'd like to take a moment to explore these issues.
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?
In general, a dental bridge can last anywhere between 5 to 15 years. Some people have been able to make their dental bridge last for more than 20 years with proper care. The lifespan of a dental bridge depends on a variety of factors, including the overall craftsmanship of the dental bridge, the location of the bridge, and materials used to make the dental bridge, and so forth.
With proper care and good overall oral hygiene, you can prolong the life of your dental bridge for many years, but at some point it will likely be damaged and require repair or replacement.
Causes of Damage to a Dental Bridge
Some potential causes of dental bridge damage include:
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Regular Wear and Tear – Biting, chewing, and other kinds of normal wear and tear on the teeth and bridge can lead to gradual damage over time.
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Sports Injuries – If you play contact sports or participate in combat sports, there's a chance of getting struck in the face or head and the dental bridge getting damaged.
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Accidents and Trauma – Vehicle accidents, slips and falls, and physical altercations can all lead to serious damage to a dental bridge.
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Poor Care and Hygiene – If you do not soak or clean your dental bridge as directed, this can lead to a weakened appliance.
When Is Dental Bridge Repair Necessary?
Dental bridge repair is necessary when the appliance becomes chipped or cracked in some way that affects proper overall function. This damage can affect the underlying frame of the dental bridge or the coating of the bridge.
Can I Just Use Dental Bridge Glue/Cement?
Dental bridge glue and cement can be effective in very limited instances. While the seal is strong, the use of dental cement should only be considered a quick and temporary fix. Full repair or replacement of the dental bridge is the ideal option to consider.
What Happens During Dental Bridge Repair?
When just the outer coating of a dental bridge is damaged, dentists can do the repair themselves. Dentists have access to professional-grade dental cement and bonding materials. These strong adhesives allow dentists to reattach broken coatings and outer structures of a dental bridge.
When the framework and underlying metal of a dental bridge are affected, the bridge will need to be replaced completely. A dental lab will fashion a new dental bridge using the previous bridge and new dental impressions as a guide.
Learn More About Dental Bridges
For more information about dental bridge repair and how we can help you smile with renewed confidence, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. We at Artistic Expressions Dentistry look forward to your visit and discussing these matters in greater detail.