How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

If you’ve struggled with tooth loss in the past, you know just how difficult it can be to complete daily tasks, like eating, speaking clearly, and smiling with confidence. The good news is that you don’t need to go the rest of your life with unsightly gaps in your smile, as there are a variety of tooth replacement options out there to choose from. One important factor to consider when choosing a tooth replacement option is how long it’s going to last. Continue reading to learn about the lifespan of dental bridges.

What’s the Average Lifespan of Dental Bridges?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, dental bridges typically have a lifespan between five to seven years, but they can last longer depending on the type of bridge that you get. Other sources claim that most bridges last longer than ten years if cared for properly with excellent oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and gentle eating.

Why Do Bridges Fail Over Time?

Dental bridges rely on the surrounding teeth to be successful. This is because the adjacent teeth are filed down to fit crowns over them that support the replacement tooth. However, this increases the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and the need for root canals in these surrounding teeth. If a supporting tooth fails, so does the bridge.

How Can Dental Bridge Failures Be Prevented?

Proper care is necessary to prevent your dental bridge from failing. Here are some important steps that you should be taking:

• Excellent Oral Hygiene: Just like how you care for your natural teeth, it is important to brush twice and floss once daily. In addition to this, you should do some extra flossing underneath and around your bridge to keep food debris and plaque from building up and leading to gum disease. This helps to keep the gums healthy beneath the bridge as well as maintain the supporting teeth.
• Eat Tooth-Healthy Foods: Stick to tooth-friendly items and avoid foods that may put too much stress on the bridge. Limit sugary and starchy foods and don’t forget to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber in your diet. Stay away from nuts, caramel, popcorn, and sticky candy that may place excessive pressure on the bridge when chewing.
• See Your Dentist: Remember to continue attending regular dental appointments. Your dentist will check your bridge to ensure that the surrounding area is in healthy shape. Cleanings will help to remove plaque in hard-to-reach areas.

Dental bridges don’t last forever, but they are a life-changing tooth replacement option for many patients. With proper care, they can remain strong for several years down the road.

About the Author

Dr. Mark Gerome is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for well over two decades. He earned his dental doctorate from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry and is involved with numerous local, national, and international dental associations where he invests countless hours each year in continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. This includes the Seattle Study Club, the American Dental Association, the Ohio Dental Association, and more! To learn more about dental bridges or to schedule an appointment at his office in Loveland, visit his website or call (513) 677-1349.