The life expectancy of dental bridges can vary greatly, depending on several factors. Some experts estimate that a dental bridge may last for 5-7 years, while others say that a bridge can last for 10-15 years or even a lifetime with proper care.
What is a Dental Bridge
According to the American Dental Association a dental bridge is a type of prosthetic device that is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of a false tooth (called a pontic) that is held in place by one or more crowns that are attached to the natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth (called abutment teeth). The crowns and pontic are typically made of porcelain or a combination of porcelain and metal.
Dental bridges are used to restore function to the mouth, improve the appearance of the teeth and smile, and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position. They are a permanent replacement option for missing teeth and can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth in a row.
Types of dental bridges
There are several types of dental bridges that can be used to replace missing teeth. These include:
- Traditional dental bridge: This is the most common type of dental bridge and is made up of a false tooth (called a pontic) that is held in place by two crowns. The crowns are attached to the natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth (called abutment teeth) and support the pontic.
- Cantilever bridge: This type of dental bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but it is supported by a single abutment tooth rather than two.
- Maryland bridge: This type of dental bridge is made up of a pontic that is held in place by a framework of metal or porcelain that is bonded to the back of the abutment teeth.
- Implant supported bridge: This type of permanent bridge is supported by dental implants rather than natural teeth. It is a more permanent and stable option, but it is also more expensive and requires a surgical procedure to place the implants.
- Resin-bonded bridge: This type of dental bridge is also known as a Maryland bridge and is made up of a pontic that is held in place by a metal framework that is bonded to the back of the abutment teeth. It is a more affordable option than an implant-supported bridge, but it is not as stable and may not be suitable for all patients.
There are several factors can affect the lifespan of a dental bridge, including:
1. Oral hygiene habits: Proper oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining the health of a dental bridge. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings can help extend the life of a dental bridge.
2. Quality of the bridge: The quality of the materials used in the bridge and the skill of the dentist who places the bridge can affect its lifespan. A bridge made from high-quality materials and placed by a skilled dentist is more likely to last longer.
3. Health of the surrounding teeth: The surrounding teeth that act as anchors for the bridge can also affect its lifespan. If these are damaged or if the tooth decay, it can compromise the bridge’s stability.
It’s important to note that dental bridges require some sacrifice in terms of the healthy teeth used as anchors. These teeth must be filed down to make room for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place. This can weaken healthy teeth and make them more prone to decay or other issues.
Overall, it’s essential to discuss the pros and cons of a dental bridge with your dentist before making a decision. Your dentist can help you determine the best action based on your needs and circumstances.
How Many Teeth can be bridged
Dental bridges can replace one to four missing teeth, depending on the patient’s needs. The number of teeth that can be replaced with a bridge depends on the availability of healthy teeth to act as anchors for the bridge.
Generally, people use dental bridges to replace one or two missing teeth. In rare cases, a dental bridge may replace three or four missing teeth, especially if the patient has good healthy teeth in the mouth to connect with dental crowns.
It’s important to note that dental bridges require some sacrifice in terms of the healthy teeth used as anchors. These teeth must be filed down to make room for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place. This can weaken healthy teeth and make them more prone to decay or other issues.
It’s important to discuss the number of missing teeth that can be replaced with a dental bridge with your dentist before making a decision.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
Getting a dental bridge is generally not painful because a local anesthetic is used to numb the treated area. This means that you should not feel pain while your dentist prepares your teeth for the bridge or takes an impression of your teeth.
After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity. This is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for aftercare, including taking any prescribed medication and avoiding hard or crunchy foods until the area has fully healed.
If you have any concerns about pain during or after the procedure, it’s important to discuss them with your dentist. They will be able to provide you with more information and answer any questions you may have.
Are dental bridges worth it?
Dental bridges can be a good option for replacing missing teeth and restoring function to the mouth. They have several advantages over dentures, including:
Comfort and stability: Bridges are generally more comfortable and stable than dentures, which can be prone to slipping or shifting.
Easy to maintain: Bridges do not need to be removed for cleaning, as dentures do. This can make it easier for patients to maintain good oral hygiene.
Better for oral health: Bridges can help preserve the health of the remaining teeth by preventing them from shifting out of place and potentially causing problems such as bite issues or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
However, it’s important to note that dental bridges require some sacrifice in terms of the healthy teeth used as anchors. These teeth must be filed down to make room for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place. This can weaken healthy teeth and make them more prone to decay or other issues.
Bridges have advantages over dentures
Yes, that’s correct. Dental bridges can be a good option for replacing missing teeth and restoring function to the mouth. They have several advantages over dentures, including:
1. Comfort and stability: Bridges are generally more comfortable and stable than dentures, which can be prone to slipping or shifting.
2. Easy to maintain: Bridges do not need to be removed for cleaning, as dentures do. This can make it easier for patients to maintain good oral hygiene.
3. Better for overall oral health: Bridges can help preserve the health of the remaining teeth by preventing them from shifting out of place and potentially causing problems such as bite issues or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
4. Better fit: Bridges are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth, which can provide a better fit and more natural appearance compared to dentures.
5. No need for adhesives: Bridges are secured using dental crowns on the surrounding teeth, so there is no need for bonds to keep them in place.
However, it’s important to note that dental bridges require some sacrifice in terms of the healthy teeth used as anchors. These teeth must be filed down to make room for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place. This can weaken healthy teeth and make them more prone to decay or other issues.
It’s important to discuss the pros and cons of both dental bridges and dentures with your dentist before making a decision. Cedar Creek Dental can help you determine the best action based on your needs and circumstances. We have dental insurance options to for you. Contact us today to know more!