How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

A fixed dental bridge provides a sturdy and reliable way to address tooth loss. But you might have some questions about what you can expect from this type of restoration. How long do dental bridges last? Is there anything you can do to extend your bridge’s longevity? This blog post explains what you should know.

The Average Lifespan of Dental Bridges

On average, fixed dental bridges endure for 5 – 15 years before replacement becomes necessary. Of course, some bridges last for more or less time. Your daily habits, the quality of your restoration, the material it is made of, and other factors can all influence how long your bridge lasts.

How to Make Your Bridge Last Longer

There are some simple things you can do that may help your bridge to last as long as possible:

• Stick to a good oral hygiene routine. Be sure to brush twice a day and floss once a day. You can use a floss threader or water flosser to clean beneath your bridge.
• Make smart food choices. Extremely hard foods might break your bridge. A diet high in sugars and starches could increase the risk of gum disease or other infections in the tissues that support your restoration. Try to eat a nutrient-rich diet that is full of foods that support oral health.
• Protect your smile. If you play sports, a mouthguard can reduce the risk of damage to your bridge and injuries to the surrounding tissues. If you grind your teeth, a nightguard can help to protect both your bridge and your teeth.
• Attend regular dental checkups. Try to make it your habit to visit our team for a cleaning and checkup every six months. Dr. Makadia will keep an eye on your bridge and let you know if he detects signs that it needs to be repaired or replaced.

When Should You Get Your Bridge Replaced?

You might need to get your bridge replaced if:

• There is a gap between your bridge and your gumline.
• It feels loose.
• You see visible signs of damage.
• The teeth or gums beneath/around your bridge are in pain.
• You feel that your bridge is disrupting your bite.

Dr. Makadia can evaluate the state of your bridge and your teeth, after which he will recommend your next steps.

A high-quality dental bridge planned and placed properly by an experienced dentist like Dr. Makadia could serve you well for many years! Take good care of your smile so you can get the most out of your restoration.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Makadia has more than 30 years of experience in dentistry. He and our team are proud to provide high-quality fixed bridges and other types of dental prosthetics. If you are concerned about the state of your dental bridge or are just at the beginning of your tooth replacement journey, we would be pleased to serve you. To learn more or to request an appointment, contact Sunrise Dental Service in Bohemia at 631-567-5566.