Do Dental Bridges Last Long?

If you have been scheduled to receive dental bridges, it is normal to be worried about how long they will last. With adequate care, dental bridges can survive up to a decade of regular use. However, because people’s dental care habits and diets have significant effects on the lifespan of these devices, it is hard to predict how long the restoration will last accurately.

Dental bridge lifespan

Different dental professionals have varying opinions on the durability of dental bridges. Most specialists believe that dental bridges last about five to seven years, while specific variants can last beyond 10 years. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, most dental bridges have a lifespan of 10 years or even a lifetime with excellent oral hygiene.

Why do dental bridges fail?

The procedure of fitting a dental bridge entails scraping off part of the teeth adjacent to the gap. This is necessary to prepare the teeth for crown placement, as they will hold up the substitute prosthetic teeth. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, however, it makes the teeth affected more susceptible to decay and gum disease, in which case, a root canal may eventually be necessary.

What you can do to prevent dental bridge failure

If you have dental bridges, you can ensure they last longer by eating tooth-friendly meals and shunning food that may put unnecessary pressure on the bridge. Dental professionals usually suggest that patients stick with fruits and vegetables instead of meats and chewier foods.

They also recommend staying away from caramel, nuts, popcorn, candy and other sticky or hard snacks as these foods can apply pressure on the dental bridges during chewing.

Taking care of dental bridges

Caring for dental bridges involves regular dental care, expert care and the occasional professional cleaning. A combination of these practices can significantly extend the lifespan of the dental bridge. Brushing regularly with active fluoride toothpaste can strengthen the teeth and protect against cavities.

Flossing is necessary to handle the exterior side of the bridge, but food can get caught beneath the bridge where it could be hard to extract. Accumulation of these materials can predispose the adjacent tooth to decay. Dentists suggest using a floss threader to access the base of the bridge and remove the trapped food debris. It is recommended to visit your dentist or dental care expert for dental bridge cleaning twice a year.

Final note

When patients ask “How long do bridges last?” the answer is that the durability of the bridge lies in their hands and depends on their level of oral hygiene. Dental bridges are highly effective restorations, and the procedure is worth the trouble if you are ready to take adequate care of them. If you take good care of your dental bridge and practice good oral hygiene, your dental bridge can last a decade. Talk to one of our dental professionals today to find out if dental bridges are a good option for you.

Request an appointment here: https://www.esdmke.com or call Eastside Dental at (414) 888-4000 for an appointment in our Milwaukee office.

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