If you are missing a tooth, a dental bridge offers a way to restore bite function and a more natural appearance. This common dental restoration helps you chew and speak with ease by filling the space left by a missing tooth. However, getting good results depends on how well the bridge and its supporting structures are maintained. Exploring the most common reasons why these restorations might struggle over time can help you get the most out of your bridge.
A dental bridge consists of two support teeth, known as abutments, and a false tooth in the middle (the pontic). Failure does not always involve the restoration falling out of the mouth. In many situations, failure refers to a loss of fit, the development of a new cavity on a supporting tooth, or damage to the bridge itself. Because this restoration relies on the surrounding teeth for stability, even a small change in the health of the enamel or the gums can compromise the whole framework.
Take a closer look at the most common causes of dental bridge failure below.
For a dental bridge, the supporting teeth may be outfitted with either dental crowns or wings to anchor the pontic. Decay at the margins of the crowns or around the wings is a leading reason for complications and eventual bridge failure. For instance, even though the porcelain crown covers the top of the tooth, the edge where it meets the gumline is still made of natural enamel. If plaque sits on this edge for too long, a cavity can form underneath the restoration. This softened tooth structure eventually loses the ability to hold the bridge in place, which requires a new treatment plan to address the damage.
A dentist can catch these issues before the tooth structure is too far gone through regular dental exams and X-rays. Good oral hygiene at home is also important for tooth health and bridge stability.
Healthy gums are the foundation of any long-term restoration, including dental bridges. Because a bridge is anchored to the bone through the supporting teeth, any loss of that bone threatens its stability. Unfortunately, untreated gum disease can affect the underlying bone and, thus, loosen the bridge framework.
Gums that appear red or bleed during daily cleaning are often the first signs of trouble. While gum disease is mostly painless in the early stages, the damage it does to the bone is often permanent. Visit a dentist as soon as possible if these symptoms occur; they can manage or even reverse gum disease if caught early enough.
Dental bridges must tolerate significant chewing forces every day, and excessive pressure from an uneven bite can crack or fracture the bridge’s components. Similarly, nighttime grinding and daytime clenching can place too much stress on the bridge. Over time, this can loosen the cement, chip the porcelain, or weaken the supporting teeth. With timely touch-ups and protective devices such as night guards, a dentist can help the bridge last longer.
A dental bridge is a smart investment in your smile's health and appearance. At Dr. Scott D. Lurie, we are here to help keep your bridge stable for years to come. If you have any concerns about the fit or feel of your bridge, contact us today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drscottdlurie.com or call Dr. Scott D. Lurie at (732) 227-4814 for an appointment in our East Brunswick office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in East Brunswick, NJ.
Dental crowns are a reliable and durable solution for restoring the appearance and function of damaged teeth. While dental crowns are designed to last years, proper care and maintenance are essential for extending their lifespan. Following practical steps and working closely with your dentist can protect your investment and enjoy a confident smile for years.Maintaining…
A dental crown is a cap used to completely cover back moral teeth. The process of having a crown placed is quite simple, but there are a few key preparation steps that a dentist must take first.Outlined here are the steps that a dentist takes to prepare a tooth for a dental crown. Review this…
If you have severe dental pain, an infection, or an injury, seeing an emergency dentist can give you immediate relief. However, following the recommended care instructions after professional treatment is important to ensure proper healing and avoid potential complications. Following these post-treatment guidelines can lead to a smoother recovery and better overall oral health.Following a…
You are not alone if your busy schedule has prevented you from making regular visits to a dental practice. Though dental visits are important for oral health, people often put them off for a number of reasons, such as a lack of time. However, the following are signs that it is time to prioritize getting…