If you have a damaged tooth or are missing a few teeth, your dentist will recommend bridging the gap in your teeth with the help of dental bridges. A dental bridge is basically a fake tooth that is held in place by the adjacent teeth.
There are a variety of materials that are used to make dental bridges, but the most commonly used ones are made from porcelain as they aesthetically blend with natural teeth better.
How long will a dental bridge last for?
There is no precise answer for the question – ‘how long do dental bridges last’, as the oral care routines, and diet of every individual is different. However, it has been observed that when proper care is taken, a dental bridge can last for up to a decade.
The thing is, different dental authorities have different opinions on the lifespan of a dental bridge. As per one clinic, a dental bridge can only last for 5 to 7 years. Whereas some say they can last for more than 10 years. Well, in the end, the lifespan of your dental bridge is depended on your oral care regime.
Why do Dental Bridges Fail?
To keep a dental bridge in its position the teeth next to the missing tooth gap are filed. While this provides the support which is needed to keep a dental bridge in place, it is also observed that it increases the risk of gum disease. Now when a supporting tooth fails, so does the dental bridge.
Taking Caring of your Dental Bridges
Taking care of dental bridges is just like taking care of normal teeth. All you need is to maintain good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist for thorough cleaning regularly.
Brush your teeth regularly with recommended toothpaste, and use a floss thread to floss under the bridge. This will ensure that all the trapped food is cleared. It is advised that you visit your dentist every 6 months to get your dental bridge cleaned professionally.
Next, by eating a tooth-friendly diet and by putting less stress on dental bridges you can prolong their lifespan. It is ideal if you add more fruits, vegetables, and fibers compared to meat and junk food to your diet to maintain good oral and general health.
Also, a dental bridge patient must avoid sugary and starchy foods as they can cause dental decay in the long run. Furthermore, try to avoid sticky and hard foods as they can overload the pressure on your dental bridge while chewing.
When a tooth gets damaged or goes missing there are several replacement options available including dental bridges before making a decision it is recommended that you discuss all the available options with your dentist in detail.