How Long Does A Dental Bridge Last?

Are you dealing with missing teeth and exploring your replacement options? One possible solution is a dental bridge, a prosthetic typically made of crowns on each side with 1-2 artificial teeth in the middle.

It’s an effective way to restore both badly damaged teeth and complete your smile. However, you might wonder how long a bridge lasts and whether it will help you restore your oral health over the long term. 

Keep reading to find out.

When Are Dental Bridges Necessary?

Dental bridges are usually recommended when a patient needs to replace a missing tooth. However, considering a bridge usually needs two anchor teeth, they are mostly used when these anchors are also slightly damaged.

To get a bridge, a dentist needs to resize your two natural abutment teeth so that the dental crowns can fit on top. The procedure isn’t usually recommended if your teeth are perfectly healthy, since it’s irreversible.

But if you don’t qualify for other tooth replacement procedures, such as dental implants, you may still get a bridge even if your abutment teeth are healthy.

How Are Dental Bridges Made?

Dental bridges are custom prosthetics made similarly to regular dental crowns. A Forest Lake dentist will take an impression of your mouth and send the mold to the lab, where the construction is made from scratch.

The bridge will match the size, color, and shape of your other natural teeth to achieve an even smile.

How Long Do They Last?

Dental bridges typically last around 10–15 years, but it does depend on patient maintenance. Bridges are made to support regular tooth function, so they are quite strong and allow you to chew your food properly.

Still, bridges can crack, check out, or fall out because of dental issues like cavities, trauma, or regular wear and tear.

How to Maintain Your Dental Bridge for Years

Good oral hygiene habits and routine visits to the dentist are your best chance to maintain your restored smile for decades.

Apart from this, you can also consider:

• Not smoking
• Wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
• Not chewing on hard objects like pen caps or ice
• Avoiding hard foods like nuts or crackers
• Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables to encourage saliva production
• Cleaning the mouth with tap water after every meal
• Reducing sugary treats and frequent snacking, etc. 

Find Out If Dental Bridges Are Right for You

Modern dentistry offers many ways to replace missing teeth, but it’s important to consider which one will give you the best results.

To that end, Dr. Jonathan Siverson is here to help you find out if bridges or other replacements are right for you.

Find out if you’re a good candidate for bridges by scheduling an appointment at Forest Lake Smiles online.

Want to learn more about dental bridges? Call us at (651) 464-8207 for a short chat.