Menu
Menu
Menu
One of the most common issues for adults, especially older adults, is missing teeth. The good news is that advancements in dental technology have made tooth replacement much easier.
For many years, dental bridges have been a reliable option for replacing up to several missing teeth in a row. This solution offers a variety of benefits involving functionality, appearance, and oral health.
One of the most common questions patients ask is: “Are dental bridges permanent?”
The team at Glow Up Dentistry in Richmond, TX want to help you answer that question- but first, it’s important to understand more about what dental bridges are and how they function, as well as the factors that impact their lifespan.
A dental bridge is an oral appliance that “bridges” the gap left behind by one or more missing teeth. Typically, a dental bridge is made of two components:
There are several different types of dental bridges available including traditional, implant-supported, and Maryland bridges. A Maryland bridge is used for front teeth and attaches to the neighboring teeth with wings.
Dental bridges are not permanent fixtures- they must be replaced from time to time. Still, there are a few things you can do to increase the lifespan of your appliance.
The average lifespan of dental bridges ranges from around 5 to 15 years based on several factors. One of the primary factors is the type of bridge:
A traditional bridge typically lasts about 5 to 15 years, based on oral health and hygiene practices
An implant-supported bridge is anchored to dental implants on each side of the gap and often lasts 15 years or more. In some cases, it may last a lifetime.
A Maryland bridge usually lasts an average of 5 to 10 years depending on the type of adhesive used and the patient’s oral hygiene.
There are several other factors that can have an impact on the lifespan of your dental bridge, including:
Oral hygiene including proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups can prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can impact the stability of the bridge.
The material used to fabricate a dental bridge impacts the lifespan. The materials most often used for dental bridges include metal, porcelain, or a combination of the two.
Biting down on hard objects or excessive force while chewing can loosen or damage a dental bridge. Patients with dental bridges should avoid using teeth as tools and crunching on hard candies and ice.
General wear and tear is natural and includes a gradual deterioration of the materials used to make the bridge, discoloration, and more. While some adjustments can be made to extend the lifespan of the bridge, ultimately replacement becomes necessary.
The experience and expertise of the dentist have a significant impact on the lifespan of the bridge.
While dental bridges are not designed to last a lifetime, there are several things you can do that can potentially extend the lifespan of your bridge, including:
Brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once- and use an antiseptic, alcohol-free mouthwash to reduce bacteria levels.
The American Dental Association advises patients to visit the dentist every 6 months for an exam and cleaning. Some patients may visit more often depending on their oral health and hygiene habits.
Choose healthy foods that support oral and overall health and avoid foods that are extremely sticky and/or hard.
If you engage in contact sports, make sure to wear a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth. If you clench/grind your teeth at night, you can protect your teeth and oral appliances with a nightguard.
Smoking and tobacco use accelerate the deterioration of your dental bridge as well as increase the risk of oral health complications.
When you get a dental bridge, you will be provided with specific care instructions to maintain it. Make sure that you follow them carefully and, if you have questions, be sure to ask.
While a dental bridge is not a lifelong, permanent solution, it does offer a variety of long-term benefits when properly maintained. The lifespan of the bridge depends on several factors including the type of bridge, materials used to fabricate the bridge, oral hygiene, dental visits, and more.
MONDAY: 9 AM – 5 PM
TUESDAY: 9 AM – 5 PM
WEDNESDAY: 9 AM – 5 PM
THURSDAY: 9 AM – 5 PM
FRIDAY: 9 AM – 5 PM
SATURDAY: 8:30 AM – 3 PM
SUNDAY: CLOSED