How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

Dental Bridges St. George, UT

Various materials go into the fabrication of dental bridges in general dentistry. They also have support structures that hold them in place. For example, a conventional bridge gets its support from two teeth on either side of the gap that it fills. In contrast, dentists use cantilever bridges to fill an open-ended gap. This type of bridge only has the support of one natural tooth because the other end of the gap lacks a second tooth. Other bridges stay in place with the help of implant-supported crowns or metal frames.

The nature and structure of a bridge are just two of several factors that determine its lifespan. In the following sections, you will find out how durable a dental bridge can be.

Dental bridges: how they work and what they fix

A dentist will recommend a dental bridge to fill a gap that results from several missing teeth. In most cases, the bridge uses the teeth on either side of the gap for support. Getting fitted for this type of bridge involves the following steps:

  • The dentist removes enamel from two healthy teeth on either side of the gap
  • They take a mold of the patient’s mouth
  • They request custom crowns that fit perfectly over the two teeth
  • The dentist will also request a prosthetic (dental bridge) with artificial teeth that match the shape, size, and color of their patient’s remaining teeth
  • Lastly, the dentist will fit the permanent crowns and attach the bridge to these crowns

Fitting an implant-supported bridge is similar, except that the supporting crowns sit on dental implants instead of teeth. This makes the implant-supported bridge the strongest and most stable option for replacing teeth. Here is how the underlying support of a bridge determines its lifespan.

Some bridges are tougher than others

An implant-supported bridge is highly durable and can remain in excellent shape for over 10 years. A bridge that relies on a single tooth (cantilever) or a metal framework (Maryland) has a lifespan of between five and seven years.

In the same vein, a dental bridge with metal crowns is more durable than one with ceramic or composite crowns. This means that there is a tradeoff to make between aesthetics and durability. Still, porcelain crowns on a dental bridge can last for more than a decade.

How to make a dental bridge last a long time

A few deliberate measures can improve a patient’s overall lifestyle. For starters, excellent oral hygiene prevents most problems that could cause a dental bridge to fail. A healthy diet is just as important when it comes to keeping the teeth and bridge in good condition.

Routine dental visits also contribute to the long life of a dental bridge and the remaining teeth. Dentists use these visits to keep tabs on their patients’ oral health, so they can catch and correct any problems early on. They will also monitor the structure of the dental bridge, making repairs and adjustments if the need arises.

Frequently asked questions about dental bridges

Let us take a look at some of the answers to questions you might have about dental bridges:

1. How quickly can I replace missing teeth with dental bridges?

The process of replacing lost teeth with dental bridges can be completed in as little as two weeks. The process requires two trips to the clinic. The first visit is used to prepare the patient’s teeth for the crowns that will be used for abutments and to take an impression of their teeth. The second visit involves cementing the abutments to the patient’s teeth.

2. Who is eligible for dental bridges?

Virtually anyone can replace missing teeth with a dental bridge. The installation of the oral prosthetic does not involve any surgical procedures, so anyone with missing teeth typically has the option of exploring bridges. Bridges are typically recommended when a person has a few missing teeth next to each other.

3. How long do dental bridges last?

Dental bridges are designed to last up to 15 years with good oral hygiene. Patients who get bridges should also take extra steps to avoid things that can damage their oral prosthetic, like biting down on hard things

4. Do dental bridges have to be anchored to the two teeth closest to the gap?

No. Traditional bridges are anchored down on the two teeth closest to the gap, but other types of bridges do not need to be cemented to multiple teeth. For example, cantilever bridges are anchored on a tooth next to the gap. 

Personalized dental care whenever you need it

Our dentist can restore your bite and smile with a tooth replacement option that works for you. Book an appointment to find out if dental bridges would be a good fit.

Request an appointment here: https://www.aboutdentalcare.com or call About Dental Care at 4353590147 for an appointment in our St. George office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in St. George, UT.

 

Recent Posts

Who May Need A Dental Crown?

You probably know that a dental crown is a treatment option at your dentist’s office. You may not, however, understand when this is a necessary or viable procedure. It is helpful to understand what a crown can do for you and when it may be the right way to correct a dental or cosmetic issue.Different…

Common Treatments For A Chipped Tooth

A chipped tooth usually occurs because of some sort of trauma, such as a fall or a blow to the mouth. It can also occur because of biting down on a substance that is too hard. If your tooth is decayed, a chip is more likely, but it can also happen to perfectly healthy teeth.Unless…

Will A Chipped Tooth Lead To An Infection?

Your chipped tooth could lead to an infection if it remains untreated for an extended amount of time. An infection could put the tooth in jeopardy of becoming lost prematurely, and the infection could also spread to other parts of the mouth and body if not properly treated in a timely manner.A chipped tooth increases…

Why You Should Prevent Further Damage Of A Chipped Tooth

A chipped tooth cannot improve on its own, and avoiding treatment could lead to further damage of the tooth and surrounding area. Without proper treatment from a dentist after a chipped tooth, you could develop an oral infection that requires root canal therapy, or the tooth could fall out. The discomfort from a chipped tooth…

Recent Posts

Foods You Should Avoid After A Smile Makeover

5 Foods You Should Avoid After A Smile Makeover

You may desire to learn ways to keep your smile healthy and bright if you have recently undergone smile makeover procedures such as getting veneers, dental bonding, or teeth whitening. To keep your teeth healthy and your smile looking great for a long time, there are certain foods and drinks to reduce your consumption of…

How A General Dentist Treats Tooth Decay

How A General Dentist Treats Tooth Decay

If you're looking for help from a general dentist to treat tooth decay, there are several things to consider before making an appointment with one to ensure your visit goes as smoothly as possible. First, you'll want to find the best dentist for treating tooth decay. The second thing you'll want to do is think…