When you’re missing a tooth or two, you’ll likely consider fixed replacement options first. These include dental bridges and dental implants. Dental bridges are ideal when you want a quick but lasting replacement for your missing teeth without having to wait for months. Before the treatment, patients often ask: Is a dental bridge permanent? Not really, but it lasts quite long when you treat it right. Keep reading!
What Exactly Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge fills in the gap in your smile when you are missing one or a few teeth. It uses the support of your teeth on both sides of the gap. Your dentist files down some part of the enamel of those healthy teeth to place crowns on top of them that support the replacement teeth.
It works by filling the gap in your smile. Since it’s cemented onto your healthy teeth, a dental bridge can withstand routine chewing and biting pressure. This means you can eat much more easily than you can with removable dentures.
Are Dental Bridges Permanent?
When dentists use the term “permanent dental bridge”, it means a bridge that’s now fixed on your teeth. You cannot remove it yourself, and only your dentist can remove it if it’s absolutely necessary.
A permanent bridge does not mean that your restoration will last forever. It may get damaged or wear out.
Sometimes, dentists place a temporary bridge after shaping your supporting teeth. This bridge is only meant to act as a short-term replacement. Once your custom dental bridge is ready to be placed, they remove this bridge and cement the permanent one.
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Really Last?
Your oral hygiene, diet, and habits like bruxism determine the lifespan of your dental bridge. Traditional dental bridges usually last about 5 to 15 years. For some patients, they last even longer because they maintain them very well. It mostly comes down to how you care for your new restoration.
The material of your bridge matters too. Porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges hold up better than all-porcelain bridges. Zirconia bridges last even longer, in some cases, up to 20 years.
When You Might Need to Think About Dental Bridge Replacement
No dental restoration lasts forever. Even the best-maintained bridges need replacement at some point. You should consider it if:
Your bridge feels loose
A loose dental bridge is not a small issue. If it feels wobbly or you can easily move it with your tongue, mention this to your dentist right away.
Decay under a bridge
This is a common reason for bridge failure. Sensitivity or pain under your bridge could suggest that your supporting teeth are decayed.
Changes in your bite
Bite down on your teeth and check if you feel pain in your bridge. If your bridge feels too high or uncomfortable, ask your dentist whether it needs to be replaced.
Conclusion
No, a dental bridge is not a permanent or forever-lasting solution. Normally, you should expect it to last somewhere between 5 and 15 years, or more with good care. If you are having any problems with your current bridge or want a new one, contact our dentists at Anh B. Dao, DDS & Associate today. Schedule your visit by calling (281) 992-7000.