How Will Your Dental Bridge Stand the Test of Time?

As soon as you lost a tooth, you knew you wanted to replace it as soon as possible. Being without it makes you feel self-conscious, and you hate how it feels in your mouth. The fastest replacement you can get is a dental bridge, but before you choose this option, you should know more about it. Continue reading to learn valuable information about this restoration such as how long it lasts and the maintenance involved. Will your dental bridge stay strong with time?

What Are Dental Bridges?

With an architectural bridge, you have two ends that are connected with a stable structure in the middle. Similarly, a dental bridge fills in the gap between two healthy teeth with a dental prosthetic. This bridge restoration consists of two crowns on the outside to anchor to these adjacent teeth with a solid prosthetic in the middle. Typically, a dental bridge replaces one to three missing teeth in a row.

Instead of attaching to natural teeth, implant bridges bond to posts that are placed and embedded in the jawbone. As a result, an implant bridge can substitute for even more missing teeth and protect healthy dentition from being affected at all.

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

The lifespan of a traditional dental bridge can vary based on how well you care for it, but assuming that you maintain it properly, your dental bridge should last up to 10 to perhaps even 15 years before needing replacement.

An implant-retained bridge can endure longer. In fact, it could continue to be in excellent, working condition for multiple decades or longer!

How Can I Make My Dental Bridge Last as Long as Possible?

Regardless of the type of bridge you receive, you must take care of your bridge because you still have natural teeth to keep healthy. Thankfully, maintenance is the same for both teeth and bridges, and these habits are easy to implement into your lifestyle.

Simple brushing and flossing every day keep plaque from building up on the bridge and other teeth, which reduces the odds of cavities and infection. In addition, visiting the dentist every six months is imperative. If your dental bridge shows signs of failure, your dentist can identify and treat the issue before it gets more serious.

In the end, if you still have questions about your replacement options, your dentist is the best resource you can turn to. Not only can they answer your queries, but they can also speak to your unique case and customize a treatment plan to your needs and determine whether a bridge or implant bridge would be best for you!

About the Practice

At Dolfield Dental of Owings Mills, Dr. Jacob Milner and Dr. Cynthia Miller proudly offer multiple solutions for those with missing teeth, including dental bridges and implants. Our team personalizes each treatment plan to the patient’s individual needs and goals, and we don’t pressure patients into treatment that isn’t right for them. To schedule a consultation with us, contact our practice online here or call us at 410-390-0277.