Are you missing one or more teeth in a row? If so, then you might benefit from a dental bridge. With this restoration treatment, you’ll be able to close the gap in your smile and return to enjoying the full look and use of your pearly whites! While your new teeth will be durable and natural-looking, you may be wondering how long they’ll last. Read on to learn about the lifespan of your dental bridge and what you can do to make the most of it.
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?
Most dental bridges can last anywhere between 5-15 years. This will depend entirely on your oral health and how well you take care of your smile. One of the best ways to preserve your brand-new teeth and bite is to practice preventive measures. This will involve brushing for two minutes twice a day, flossing daily (or after every meal), rinsing with mouthwash frequently, and visiting your dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings. By implementing these prevention tips, you’ll be able to maintain great oral health as well as avoid your dental bridge from failing.
What Causes Dental Bridges to Fail?
Although your restoration will be durable, it doesn’t mean they’ll be indestructible. Similar to your natural teeth, excessive pressure and poor oral hygiene can result in your dental bridge becoming loose or falling out entirely. For this reason, you’ll want to refrain from bad dental habits, such as using your teeth as tools, smoking tobacco products, and biting your fingernails. You should also consider avoiding munching on hard or sticky meals, like popcorn and caramel, as these can place too much pressure on your dental bridge.
How Your Dentist Can Help
Your dentist is one of your biggest allies when it comes to preserving your replacement teeth. By visiting them routinely, they’ll be able to monitor your oral health and evaluate the condition of your dental bridge. They can provide any necessary adjustments, recommend best practices for maintaining your pearly whites, and clean each surface of your smile to maximize its lifetime.
If you’re interested in replacing consecutive missing teeth, feel free to speak with your dentist about dental bridges. They’ll be more than happy to discuss your treatment so that you can enjoy your full smile again!
About the Author
Dr. Sumit Chanana earned his dental doctorate from the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He’s also a member of several organizations like the American Dental Association and the Wisconsin Dental Association, and he regularly seeks continuing education to refine his skills. He offers a wide range of advanced and comprehensive treatments, including dental bridges. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, feel free to visit our website or call us at 262-563-9100.