How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last Woodinville, WA

If you’re missing a tooth, you may want to consider dental bridges. These appliances can be anchored into place securely without implants or oral surgery. Dr. Cristin Dowd and Dr. Ken Wu have restored so many smiles in the Woodinville, WA thanks to custom dental bridges.

Before getting bridges placed, many of our patients ask us how long their bridge will last. The team at Signature Smiles would like to consider the lifespan of an average dental bridge, the reasons why a bridge wears down, and how to make your bridge last as long as possible.

How Dental Bridges Work

First, a brief primer on how a dental bridge works.

A dental bridge is a false tooth or a pair of false teeth that are bookended by crowns. The entire appliance is just one piece. The teeth adjacent to the tooth gap are prepped to accommodate the dental crowns on the sides of the bridge. In essence, the bridge is anchored into place by the teeth beside the tooth gap, bridging the gap between these remaining teeth.

There are variations on this type of dental bridge, but they all work on similar principles.

Average Lifespan of a Dental Bridge

For most dental bridges, the average lifespan is about 5 to 15 years. This timeframe can vary based on a number of factors, including the location of the bridge, the material the bridge was fashioned from, the alignment of the patient’s bite, and so forth.

Causes of Dental Bridge Damage

The most common causes of wear and tear to dental bridges that our Woodinville patients experience include:

• Physical Trauma to the Mouth - If you suffer a fall or are involved in a vehicle accident, injury to the mouth or face can lead to a damaged dental bridge.
• Uneven Pressure of the Bite - If your teeth are improperly aligned, it may place too much pressure on the bridge. This excessive pressure on the bridge can cause it to wear down prematurely.
• Accidents While Eating - If you bite down on an unpopped popcorn kernel, a bit of bone, or another hard object unexpectedly, it can cause your dental bridge to fracture or crack.
• Natural Wear and Tear - Just like your natural teeth, a dental bridge is subject to wear and tear. Even if you take good care of a dental bridge, it is bound to need replacement at some point.

Proper Oral Hygiene with a Dental Bridge

When it comes to caring for a dental bridge, the basics of oral hygiene are simple.

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Floss your teeth at least once a night, and try to clean the space under the bridge as well; you can use superfloss or a proxy brush to do this

As always, it’s crucial that you visit your dentist twice a year for regular checkups and to monitor the condition of your dental bridge.

Replacing an Old Dental Bridge

Once your dental bridge has worn down, there are many options available for replacement. The team at our Woodinville practice can help create a new custom bridge for you that’s comfortable, functional, and as aesthetically pleasing as possible.

Learn More About Restorative Dentistry

If you would like to learn more about replacing missing teeth and your many options for advanced dental care, be sure to contact our experienced team of cosmetic and restorative dentists. The team at Signature Smiles can be reached by phone at (425) 489-1177.