A dental bridge is a reliable way to replace multiple missing teeth at once, restoring your smile’s appearance and function. But like any dental restoration, it won’t last forever. Over time, bridges can weaken, break, or come loose, and when they do, it can be both uncomfortable and costly. So, what causes a dental bridge to fail? Continue reading to take a closer look at the common culprits and how to avoid them.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Just because bridges can’t get cavities doesn’t mean you can skip brushing and flossing. In fact, bridges need more care than natural teeth. Food and bacteria can collect around the supporting teeth (called abutments), and under the false teeth (called pontics). Over time, this can lead to gum disease or decay around the restoration. If the foundation weakens, the whole bridge can fail!
Make sure to brush twice a day, floss under and around the bridge, and keep up with dental cleanings. Tools like super floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers can help with this task.
Gum Disease
Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can cause gums to recede and the underlying bone to weaken. When this happens, the abutment teeth lose support and the bridge may no longer fit correctly, or stay in place at all!
Watch for early signs of gum issues like redness, swelling, or bleeding, and see your dentist as soon as possible if you notice changes. Taking care of this early is easier and cheaper than waiting for it to worsen.
Bite Problems of Grinding
Clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism) puts extra pressure on a dental bridge. Over time, this constant force can wear down or even fracture the restoration or the teeth supporting it.
Talk to your dentist if you clench your jaw or grind your teeth at night. A customized nightguard can help protect your dental work and keep your smile safe.
Simple Wear and Tear
Even with perfect care, dental bridges don’t last forever. On average, they last 5 to 15 years, depending on the materials, location in your mouth, and how well they’re maintained.
If you want to get the most out of your restoration, visit your dentist regularly so they can check the condition of your bridge and address any small issues before they turn into bigger ones.
Dental bridges are an investment in your smile, and like anything valuable, they need routine care to stay strong. If you’ve noticed pain, looseness, or a change in how your bite feels, don’t delay. The sooner you get help, the more likely your bridge can be repaired rather than replaced. By knowing what to watch out for, you’ll have the tools you need to keep your smile happy and healthy for the foreseeable future!
About the Practice
At Goodman Dental, Dr. Caleb Goodman and Dr. Joshua Hong take pride in providing restorations like dental bridges that are built to last. We focus on strong materials, precise placement, and thorough patient education to help reduce the risk of complications. If something does go wrong, we’re here with solutions to restore your smile. Call (623) 925-8822 to schedule a consultation with our team or visit our website to explore other services.