You need to replace a missing tooth or two. If your dental gaps happen to be in a consecutive line, a dental bridge could certainly be the best solution for your smile – but you don’t want to invest in a subpar restoration. A permanent tooth replacement that only lasts a couple of months isn’t very convenient or cost effective! So how long can you expect a dental bridge to last?
Learn the answer to this question and more in this post!
Average Lifespan of a Dental Bridge
Generally, a dental bridge can last for five to seven years. You should know, though, that with proper care, that life expectancy can increase to ten years or more – and without it, your dental bridge might not hold up as well as the average. If you want to get the most out of your restoration, there are definitely things you should and shouldn’t do.
How to Help Your Restoration Last
Let’s start with the positives: the habits and maintenance you cando to promote your dental bridge’s longevity. Like with natural teeth, good oral hygiene and preventative care measures are crucial. You should:
- Brush twice daily, preferably with a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss at least once per day with traditional thread or a water flosser.
- Rinse your mouth with cool water after every meal.
- Visit your dentist every six months for a professional checkup and cleaning.
- Ask about nightguards for teeth grinding or a mouthguard if you play sports.
- Call your dentist promptly if you experience any strange or uncomfortable oral symptoms!
These suggestions might sound pretty standard, but why is oral hygiene and timely care so important?
What Can Cause Premature Wear
One of the most common reasons dental bridges fail or come loose is dental weakness from oral illness. Conditions like tooth decay or gum disease will wreak havoc on the very systems your restoration relies on for support: your gumline and your natural teeth. The best way to keep these complications at bay is to clean the bacteria and plaque from your mouth on a daily basis, and to notify your dentist as soon as you notice symptoms like bleeding gums or persistent toothache.
Injury or damage from chronic teeth grinding can also be a problem for your dental bridge, but accidents are harder to control than your hygiene habits. Luckily, that’s what nightguards and athletic mouthguards are for! With these protective devices, you can reduce the odds of dental damage.
Talk to Your Dentist
There are many ways you can help your dental bridge last longer. Ask your dentist about the best way to care for your tooth replacement, and they’ll gladly give you personalized tips!
About the Practice
Drs. Natalie J. and Ramon M. Ortiz are an exceptional husband-and-wife team that know how to put their skills together to provide the best quality care for their patients. They keep up the latest techniques in dentistry, so if you need a dental bridge in Las Cruces, you can rest assured that Dr. Natalie and Dr. Ramon will give you a durable, up-to-date restoration. To contact their office, call 575-521-8720.