Dental bridges have been used in some form to replace missing teeth for centuries, and modern models are incredibly lifelike, functional, and durable. These appliances are used to replace one or several lost teeth in sequence, and they can be a convenient and effective way to close the gap in a patient’s smile so they can grin confidently and chew more thoroughly. Here’s a brief guide to how long your dental bridge can last as well as a few tips for maximizing its lifespan.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a restorative appliance used to replace one or a few missing adjacent teeth, and it must be held in place with either a pair of dental crowns or two dental implants. Here’s a quick look at the differences between these two options:
Traditional bridges
A traditional bridge consists of one to four artificial teeth strung between two dental crowns designed to be cemented on the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. The longer a traditional bridge is, the more unstable it becomes, so dentists typically only use them to replace one or two teeth. These appliances can restore the smile’s appearance and chewing ability while preventing the nearby teeth from drifting out of place, but placing them requires the alteration of healthy dental structures, and they will not resolve the jawbone erosion caused by tooth loss.
Implant bridges
Similarly to traditional bridges, implant bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth strung together, but they are mounted on titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone rather than dental crowns that require irreversible changes to healthy teeth. Implant bridges also preserve the health of the jaw by providing it with the stimulation it needs to stay healthy and strong, which can prevent or even reverse the process of bone erosion that occurs after tooth loss.
How Long Can My Dental Bridge Last?
The lifespan of your dental bridge depends greatly on how well you take care of it. While a dental bridge is immune to tooth decay, oral infections can destroy the teeth or jawbone structure it depends on for support, which can cause it to fail much sooner or make its removal necessary for the problem to be treated. It’s important to brush, floss, and use antibacterial mouthwash daily to keep your mouth healthy and your bridge in good shape, and it’s also crucial to regularly clean beneath the appliance using a special brush.
With excellent care, a traditional dental bridge can last for fifteen years or more before needing replacement. A well-maintained implant bridge, on the other hand, can last for several decades or a lifetime.
Dental bridges have allowed millions of people to enjoy complete smiles after tooth loss. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to restore your grin.
About the Author
Dr. Sujal Patel earned his dental degree at New York University in 2013 and regularly participates in continuing education coursework to stay abreast of the latest developments in his field. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association, and his office in Dallas offers general, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dental services as well as dental bridges. To learn more about replacing your lost teeth, contact his office online or dial (972) 818-5649.