Missing teeth can impact daily life, making it painful to eat or embarrassing to smile. Dental bridges restore missing teeth, improving dental function and quality of life.
Dental bridges provide long term relief from tooth loss but most will eventually need replacement. At Astoria Dental Group, Dr. Clifford Degel and Dr. Carmen Every-Degel offer dental bridge replacement to patients throughout Queens, NY, Long Island, and NYC and can help you with your dental needs.
Whether you already have a dental bridge or plan to get one, it’s helpful to be aware of when dental bridges should be replaced and what options you may have when seeking dental bridge replacement.
Signs Dental Bridges Should Be Replaced
Dental bridges can last well over 10 years with proper care and good oral hygiene habits, but even well-cared for dental bridges may need to be replaced at some point. Some signs that dental bridges need to be replaced include:
- Tooth decay: Dental bridges are made of artificial teeth that cannot decay but the teeth that support these restorations can. When tooth decay is present, it’s important that it is treated as soon as possible to restore dental health and prevent further damage. Often this requires the dental bridge to be removed and replaced.
- Damage to the dental bridge: Although dental bridges are durable, they can become damaged. If the bridge breaks, chips, or becomes damaged in any way, it will need to be replaced.
- Loose fit: Dental bridges may become loose over time. Loose dental bridges should be replaced immediately as they can allow plaque and bacteria to reach the supporting teeth and increase the risk of decay.
- Dental bridge is causing pain: Dental bridges should improve dental comfort and not cause pain. If pain is felt around the bridge, it may be a sign of tooth decay or other issue and should be addressed.
Replacement Options for Dental Bridges
There are several different types of dental bridges to address each patient’s unique tooth loss needs. Sometimes these needs change from when a dental bridge was first placed.
- Traditional dental bridge: A traditional dental bridge consists of an artificial tooth sandwiched by two dental crowns. The dental crowns are bonded to the natural teeth, effectively replacing the missing tooth.
- Maryland bonded dental bridge: A Maryland bonded bridge consists of plastic gums and teeth connected to a metal framework. The framework is affixed to the teeth next to the space left by a missing tooth or teeth.
- Cantilever dental bridge: Those who don’t have teeth remaining on both sides of the gap left by their missing tooth may benefit from a cantilever dental bridge.
- Implant-supported dental bridge: Rather than attaching to the natural teeth, implant-supported bridges anchor to dental implants, which are titanium posts placed within the jaw, making it possible for those with several missing teeth to enjoy restored dental function.
Prolonging the Life of Your Dental Bridge Replacement
Dental bridges are crafted to provide years of restored dental function. However, they can wear down and require replacement over time. Practicing good oral hygiene habits and properly caring for dental bridges can help make them last as long as possible. Some things that can help prolong the life of dental bridge replacements include:
- Avoid hard and sticky foods that can break or dislodge dental bridges
- Use a soft bristled brush to avoid scratching the bridge
- Use an interdental brush or water pick to clean where the artificial tooth of the bridge sits on the gum
- Schedule regular dental exams and cleanings to identify any signs of damage and protect oral health
Schedule a Consultation
For more information about dental bridge replacement or to find out which treatments are right for you, call (718) 215-0510 to schedule a consultation.
