Let’s say you need a specific dental restoration. A single implant wouldn’t cut it, while a full denture would be excessive. What should you do? In your case, consider getting a dental bridge. This treatment is a good middle-of-the-road option that’d easily restore your smile! Still, you may want to know about dental bridge lifespan first. After all, it’s best to ensure your prosthetic is cost-effective. Luckily, your Springfield dentist has the details. Here’s a summary of dental bridges, how long they last, and how to extend their lifespan with proper care.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a device that replaces three or more consecutive teeth. In most cases, each one is made up of two or more crowns placed on either side of an artificial tooth. It relies on abutment teeth next to the smile gap to stay in place.
There are two types of dental bridges — removable ones and fixed ones. Per its name, a removable bridge can be removed from your mouth. A fixed bridge, meanwhile, is permanently attached either to your natural teeth or to dental implants.
How Long Can a Dental Bridge Last?
Dentists have varying opinions on dental bridge lifespan. You see, oral hygiene, diet, and lifestyle can strongly influence the devices’ longevity.
Still, there are some consistent estimates. Some groups, for example, believe bridges can last five to seven years on average. A well-maintained one, though, could continue working for over ten years. Others have said the same, claiming that a bridge given good care could last a lifetime!
How to Care for Your Dental Bridge
If you want your bridge to last as long as possible, you’ll need to care for it. In particular, you ought to clean and keep it free of food debris, plaque, and bacteria. Here are a few tips that’ll help you do so:
- If your bridge is removable, clean it over a sink full of water or a folded towel. That way, the prosthetic won’t break if you drop it.
- Brush the bridge twice daily and floss between its teeth once daily. When doing so, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and interdental brushes.
- After brushing, rinse with cool, clean water. Hot water could warp the bridge.
You can expect a quality smile from your dental bridge treatment. That said, follow the tips above to keep it for a long while.
About the Practice
Skyline Dental is based in Springfield, New Jersey. As led by Dr. Aliana Henkin, our practice strives for high-quality, patient-focused dentistry. To that end, we offer personalized preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, as well as emergency procedures. Furthermore, our office’s tools and technology ensure that you’ll receive perfect, pain-free care at convenient hours. For more information or to book an appointment, reach us on our website or call us at (973)-949-0925.