In many cases, a dental bridge can endure for at least a decade; this type of restoration is a long-term solution to replace missing teeth. But what should you do if your dental bridge falls out? Do not panic. Instead, take practical steps to manage the situation and minimize the potential for damage to your smile. This blog post provides guidance to help you get through your dental emergency with as little stress as possible. You are also invited to simply call our office at 631-405-4390.
Why Do Dental Bridges Fall Out?
There are a number of reasons why a dental bridge might fall out. For example, it might have been damaged, perhaps in an accident or if you vigorously bit into a hard food. This problem could also arise if there is an issue with the teeth that are supporting the bridge (called the abutment teeth). If they suffer decay or physical trauma, they may no longer be able to keep the restoration where it belongs.
Dental misalignment could also contribute to a bridge falling out. If your upper and lower teeth do not contact one another at the correct angle, they can place stress on the bridge and gradually loosen the bonding agent that was binding it to your teeth.
Call Your Dentist for Help
As soon as your bridge falls out, call your emergency dentist to book an appointment. You should seek professional care right away because without your bridge, your abutment teeth may be very sensitive, making it uncomfortable for you to eat. It is also important to remember that your bridge was a placeholder for your teeth. Without it, your abutment teeth may start to drift out of their places.
Fortunately, Dr. Makadia and the Sunrise Dental Service team are always ready to help individuals who need urgent care. We are often able to accommodate emergency patients on a same-day basis. We even have convenient evening and weekend hours.
What to Do Before Your Appointment
Here are some steps you can take before your appointment to minimize the stress of your dental emergency:
- Find your bridge and place it in a secure container. Bring it with you to your appointment. There is a chance that Dr. Makadia can recement it. (If recementation is not possible, you may need an entirely new bridge or other forms of restorative care.)
- Be gentle with your abutment teeth. Do not chew with your exposed abutment teeth. Try to eat only soft foods that are not extremely hot or cold.
- Keep your mouth clean. Do not neglect brushing and flossing. Just be sure to be gentle when you are cleaning around your abutment teeth.
Losing a dental bridge can be scary! Fortunately, if you stay calm and seek your dentist’s help right away, you can manage the situation in the best way possible.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Makadia is an accomplished dentist with decades of experience in his field. He combines his skill and compassion to help emergency patients find fast relief from their problems. If you are concerned about a lost dental bridge or have other oral health concerns, get in touch with Sunrise Dental Service at 631-405-4390.