If you are missing one or more of your teeth, it can make daily things like eating, speaking, and smiling a little more challenging. The good news is that there are many tooth replacement options available that can restore both the function and appearance of your teeth.
Dental bridges are a tried-and-true solution for individuals missing one or a few consecutive teeth. However, they aren’t invincible. Read on to learn about the most common culprits that can cause dental bridges to fail and what you can do to protect your complete smile!
Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the most common reasons for dental bridge failure is poor oral hygiene. This type of restoration anchors prosthetic teeth over gaps in your smile through abutments, which refer to the structures supporting the restoration. It typically refers to your natural teeth, but it can also be the connector posts used in dental implants!
When you don’t clean away bacteria in your mouth, they can find their way under the dental bridge. Over time, they will damage the supporting abutment teeth, resulting in an unstable foundation and a lot of discomfort. The best thing you can do at home to prevent this is to brush twice daily and floss once a day. You can even use antibacterial mouthwash. Then, you will keep your bridge in place and your teeth healthy.
Bad Habits
Habits such as nail or pen biting, eating ice cubes, and excessive teeth grinding or clenching can wear down your dental bridges. They put extra pressure on the prosthetic, which can potentially cause it to crack or become damaged. Break these bad habits by considering alternatives such as squeezing a stress ball or other fidget toy.
Lack of Dental Checkups
Visiting your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings is just as important as your at-home oral routine. They check to see if your dental bridge is in good condition and will look for issues that you may not be able to see yourself. Your dental hygienist will also clear away any plaque or tartar that you cannot remove with regular brushing. Be consistent with your dental visits by scheduling appointments every six months! It will give your dentist a chance to spot issues before they can cause your dental bridge to fail.
With proper care, dental bridges can last over a decade! While they aren’t indestructible, you can take steps to keep them in good shape and show off your full smile for years to come!
About the Practice
At Bell Dental, we have been serving the Louisville community for more than two decades. With our team of dentists, we offer a wide range of restorative dental treatments, including dental bridges. We work to keep your smile happy and healthy with a restoration that lasts for years to come. If you want to fill gaps in your smile, schedule an appointment or call us at (502) 749-2355.