Minimizing the Risk of Tooth Loss with Dental Bridges
If you’ve lost a tooth, your dentist may suggest a dental bridge to restore your smile. While this can be a good and affordable option, it’s essential to consider how long it’ll last and how to take care of it. This article will cover topics such as whether the teeth supporting the bridge can develop cavities and what factors may cause the bridge to fail. Additionally, you’ll get advice on maintaining your dental bridge for maximum longevity.
The Procedure for Getting Dental Bridges
The procedure for dental bridges is as follows:
Desensitizing and Reshaping
Getting a dental bridge is not a single-step procedure and requires multiple visits to the dentist. The dentist will first numb the gum tissue near the tooth beside the bridge with a local anesthetic. Next, the teeth that will support the crowns are reshaped by either filling or filing them down. The crowns must fit precisely to hold the bridge firmly in place.
Fitting a Substitute
To fit a dental bridge, the dentist will first reshape the teeth that will hold the crowns using a local anesthetic injection to the adjacent gum tissue. Once the teeth are ready, an impression of the missing tooth and the surrounding teeth will be made and sent to a laboratory to customize the bridge. In the meantime, the patient will receive a temporary bridge secured with cement to fill the gap. After a few weeks, the permanent bridge will be ready, and the patient will return for a follow-up visit. During this visit, the dentist will ensure the bridge doesn’t affect the patient’s bite alignment.
Are the Teeth Supporting a Dental Bridge Prone to Cavities?
Yes. A dental bridge relies on two natural teeth adjacent to a missing tooth for support. These teeth have dental crowns attached to a “floating” crown in the middle. However, like any other crowned teeth, they are still vulnerable to cavities, infections, and gum diseases.
Sometimes, a cavity on one of the anchoring teeth can be detected early during a routine checkup and filled with a small filling. However, in some cases, the cavity may go unnoticed and require the removal of the fixed bridge for treatment.
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?
A tooth bridge can remain functional for 10 to 15 years or even more if well-maintained. However, some circumstances can cause it to fail, such as poor oral hygiene, which results in cavities, gum disease, or infections in the supporting teeth. Chewing on complex objects like ice or hard candies or clenching and grinding can also cause the bridge to break. Regular dental checkups are crucial for maintaining natural teeth and dental work.
How to Minimize Risk of Tooth Loss with Dental Bridges
After the permanent bonding of your dental bridges in Brighton, ON, you can maintain a healthy and attractive smile by adhering to some easy tips.
Brush Twice Daily
You need to brush your teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to eliminate plaque deposits and tartar that can develop around teeth and gums. Using whitening pastes should be avoided as they can damage the bridge. Also, brushing helps remove irritants and regulate oral bacteria levels, promoting oral health.
Floss Daily
To maintain your bridge, it’s essential to floss once a day. The natural teeth anchor your bridge on either side, so it’s crucial to care for them properly. Flossing between all of your natural teeth at least once a day can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which could compromise the stability of your bridge.
Clean Underneath the Bridge
It’s essential to clean underneath your bridge regularly. After brushing and flossing, make sure to remove any debris and food particles that are stuck between your bridge and gums. To do this, you can use tools like floss threaders, interdental brushes, or dental picks. Your dentist or hygienist can suggest specific products for this purpose.
Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are crucial for maintaining proper oral health, especially if you have a dental bridge or another type of restoration. It is recommended to visit the dentist twice a year for routine exams and cleanings. However, your dental professional may suggest more frequent visits if you are at a higher risk for dental issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay. To schedule your next appointment, contact Brighton Family Dentistry today.