Modern dental restorations are incredibly durable, and when they’re taken good care of, they can last for several years without needing a replacement. That said, if your bridge does fail, it can be frustrating and confusing. You’d probably like to know what happened so you can avoid this issue in the future!
Keep reading, and you’ll learn about three different causes of dental bridge failure – as well as what you can do to avoid further complications.
1. Dental Shifting
A traditional dental bridge is supported on either side of a gap by two crowns. These crowns rely on the teeth underneath them, so if they, say, shift out of place, your bridge may no longer fit properly. Depending on the severity of your case, this could cause discomfort, or your bridge could fall out entirely.
Fortunately, your dentist should be able to craft a new restoration that better fits your shifted pearly whites.
2. Unhealthy Habits
It’s not a good idea to crunch on ice, fingernails, keys, pencils, and other hard objects. While this type of habit might satisfy a certain ich, it puts a lot of strain on both natural and artificial teeth. Your lived-in pearly whites will likely experience premature wear, and your bridge could become chipped or cracked.
If you do damage your bridge, your dentist will be able to repair or replace it. But it’s best to try and break these habits so you won’t need frequent appointments!
3. Poor Oral Hygiene
Technically, your dental bridge can’t catch cavities. However, the teeth underneath your two crowns can. If you’re not brushing and flossing your smile like you should be, you have a greater risk of developing cavities. The resulting dental decay could very well affect the teeth supporting your bridge, in which case your restoration will likely fail.
Remember to brush twice daily, floss once per day, and visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings every six months!
Knowing When Your Bridge Needs Fixed
At this point, you’re probably wondering how you’ll know for sure whether your bridge needs repaired or replaced. Dental bridge failure has a few warning signs you can watch out for, including:
- Noticeable cracks or chips
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Inflamed gums
- Looseness
It’s also perfectly fine to request a replacement if you’re no longer satisfied with the shade or shape of your bridge! A seamless smile can be just as important as a functional one, so don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist about your oral concerns.
About the Practice
Our three dental professionals at Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence are all highly experienced. You can trust them to provide you with quality restorations, but if your bridge does fail, our team will be ready to help with comfortable care and outstanding service. To contact our office and schedule an appointment, call 847-259-1111.