Dental bridges can help “bridge” the gap in your smile left behind by up to four consecutive missing teeth. But understanding how to care for your new bridge is essential to ensuring it lasts as long as possible. Here’s what you can expect from your prosthetic, so your smile looks and feels great for years to come!
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a series of prosthetic teeth that connect to two healthy abutment teeth like crowns. Between them can sit up to four prosthetic teeth that look and feel real, closing gaps in your smile from permanent tooth loss.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
On average, most dental bridges last between five and fifteen years. This largely depends on a variety of factors, including the individual patient’s oral health, how well they care for their prosthetic, and the materials used. Most frequently they are made of either ceramic or porcelain, which are both durable and natural-looking, so nobody will know they’re not seeing your “real” teeth!
How Do I Care for My Dental Bridge?
Caring for a dental bridge is very similar to how you might care for a dental crown or filling. Because they are cemented to two natural teeth, your dental bridge can only be removed by a dentist. Thus, to care for it, you can simply brush it like you would your real teeth. It is important to remember that while you cannot floss between the teeth in your bridge, you still need to floss between your natural teeth, as well as around the abutment teeth.
Always brush your dental bridge with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. It is important to note that whitening toothpastes do not work on restorations such as dental bridges and thus using them will not change their shade. It can, however, cause the cement holding it in place to deteriorate, so it is best to avoid this type of toothpaste and speak to your dentist about professional whitening instead.
Remember, dental bridges are a durable, natural-looking way to restore your smile, but how long yours lasts depends on how well you take care of it. With proper care and use, it can last for many years to come!
About Dr. Fromuth
Dr. Robert C. Fromuth was educated at Pennsylvania State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He has also taken courses at the L.D. Pankey Institute. He is a current member of the New Hampshire Dental Association, Manchester Dental Society, American Dental Association. To schedule an appointment for a dental bridge at Fromuth & Langlois Dental of Manchester, please visit our website or call us today at 603-644-3368.