How long does a dental bridge last?
If you need one or more teeth replaced, your dentist might recommend a dental bridge. But we know that, financially, dental surgery like this can be a big ask. So, it better last a long time, right?
The good news is that quality dental bridges can last ages – decades, even. Although they’re not invulnerable. Let’s talk about how long to expect a bridge to last, and how to avoid it falling out sooner.
Not sure what a dental bridge is? Read this article first!
So how long do dental bridges last?
Dental bridges usually last between 10 and 15 years, but they can go even longer (over 20+ years) if properly installed and well-maintained.
Dental bridge materials have an effect on longevity
The material your bridge is made from can have some effect on its longevity.
Ceramic bridges - usually made from porcelain and zirconium – look the most natural and are very hard. However, because porcelain can be somewhat brittle, it’s often not suitable for bridges at the back of the mouth (that is, your molars). These teeth are used to grind and chew food, and this motion can wear porcelain bridges and lead to breaks.
Your abutment teeth are also important
Another consideration for the longevity of your dental bridge is your abutment teeth (the teeth adjacent to the new bridge). As we’ll talk a little bit more about shortly, if you suffer problems with your abutments then it may have a flow-on effect to your bridge.
The strongest dental bridge is actually an implant-supported bridge, where one or more dental implants are used instead of, or in conjunction with, abutment teeth.
Dental implants are extremely strong and durable, however, they are more expensive and require greater maintenance than traditional bridges.
Learn more: “What are the three different types of dental implant in NZ?”
Can dental bridges fall out?
Unfortunately, yes. A dental bridge can fall out in certain circumstances, usually (like many oral health problems) related to a lack of care.
The most common reason dental bridges fall out is because the abutment teeth start to decay. While a crown (which would be fitted over your abutment teeth) won’t generally degenerate like a natural tooth, part of your natural tooth will usually still be exposed, and this needs to be cared for like all natural teeth. If not? Decay can set in and the tooth may lose the strength it needs to support your bridge.
Alternatively, an implant-supported dental bridge might fall out if the implant itself fails. This can happen for a great number of reasons, many of which may not be within your control.
So what if my bridge falls out?
The best thing you can do is contact your dentist immediately. They will quickly assess why the bridge failed and figure out if the supporting abutment or implant is still in a good enough condition to do its job.
If it is, they can reattach the bridge immediately to prevent further complications.
If it’s not, well, it may take additional surgery but your dentist will walk you through everything you need to know.
Do dental bridges ever need to be replaced?
We’d love to say that they don’t, but the reality is that dental bridges can fail. That means they break, crack or (as we talked about above) may fall out entirely. For example, a dental bridge might become damaged due to a blow to the face.
In instances of more minor damage, fractures in your bridge might be repairable without removing it. However, if the damage is more severe or the bridge has become uncomfortable, we will need to act quickly – that means contacting your dentist as quickly as possible.
What if it becomes uncomfortable and I haven’t suffered a facial injury?
This may be a sign of a deeper problem, and again we’d recommend coming in to see us as soon as possible. Tooth decay could be causing problems in your mouth, or the implant may be failing for some reason. We’ll need to assess what’s wrong and plot a new course of action.
Restore your smile with dental bridges from Kowhai Dental
If you’re interested in restoring your smile with a dental bridge, or you’re concerned about an existing dental bridge, the team here at Kowhai Dental are always happy to have a chat.
Drop by on Maunu Road in Whangarei if you need us, call us on 09 430 0707 or book online to make an appointment.