Are you grappling with a noticeable gap due to the absence of two or more consecutive teeth? In the realm of tooth replacement options, dental bridges emerge as a viable solution, adeptly closing the space between teeth and restoring both aesthetics and functionality. Ensuring the lasting effectiveness of your dental bridge demands careful attention to maintenance. Join us as we delve into the various factors influencing its durability and uncover strategies to extend its lifespan.
Types of Dental Bridges
Apart from maintaining good oral hygiene, the choice of restoration significantly impacts the lifespan of your dental bridge. Traditional bridges, relying on abutment teeth, typically last five to 15 years. These bridges involve shaping the abutment teeth for a seamless fit without affecting your bite.
Alternatively, implant-supported dental bridges, utilizing dental implants for support, are recommended by many dentists. This option, ideal for replacing three to five consecutive teeth, requires a four to six-month osseointegration period, with a lifespan typically exceeding 20 years before replacement becomes necessary.
4 Ways to Make Your Dental Bridge Last
Inadequate care can reduce the anticipated lifespan of your dental bridge. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to bolster its durability, including:
- Brushing regimen – Brush your teeth thoroughly for two minutes in the morning before breakfast and again at night before bedtime. Utilize a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth. It also shields your smile from cavities and enamel erosion.
- Flossing routine – Incorporate into your nightly routine the habit of flossing between your teeth and beneath your dental bridge before brushing. This routine aids in the removal of food particles, eliminates plaque, and minimizes the risk of cavities.
- Healthy habits – To safeguard your bridge, refrain from using your teeth to open bottles or packages, and avoid chewing on ice or hard objects to prevent damage. Additionally, it’s advisable to steer clear of excessive smoking and alcohol consumption, as they can heighten the risks to your oral health.
- Selective eating – Steer clear of sticky items such as chewing gum and delicate foods like potato chips, as they may become lodged beneath your dental bridge or exert unnecessary stress on it.
Taking proactive measures to care for your dental bridge significantly influences its longevity. By consistently maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding detrimental habits, and making thoughtful decisions about your dietary choices, you can guarantee the continued effectiveness of your dental bridge in the foreseeable future!
About the Practice
Dedicated to providing individualized and conservative dental care, Weiss Dental Arts offers a wide range of services encompassing preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Tailoring treatments to suit the specific needs of your smile, we offer various replacement options, including dental bridges, to restore the completeness of your smile if you’re dealing with missing teeth. For inquiries about the longevity of dental bridges or to schedule a consultation, visit the Weiss Dental Arts website or contact their office at (847) 864-0188.