It might be safe to assume that if one gets replacement teeth, they want them to look and function as closely to the natural teeth as possible. And that means the patient wants them to last as long as relative to. But is that possible with the bridge? And if not, how long do bridges last? We will let you know how to maximize your bridge's lifespan and how long you'll expect the device to last with proper care and help you ensure that your dental bridge functions well enough to keep you smiling.

What's the Difference between Removable and Fixed Dental Bridges?

Removable dental bridges have crowns on either end that clip onto your existing teeth filed down by our dentists in Houston, TX, to fit correctly. If you get this impermanent dental replacement, you must check them out for daily cleaning. People who choose removable dental bridges over fixed bridges often do so because remove-over bridges have lower costs and don't require surgery. There are two types of fixed dental bridges. One is similar to a removable dental bridge in that each end caps your natural tooth. The difference is that they're cemented in place. The other kind of fixed dental bridge is attached to dental implants. Dental implants are metal features that your dentist surgically fastens to your jaw bone below the gum. These dental implants become anchored to your bone drew osseointegration, where the bone fuses to the metal. This process provides you with stable support you can rely on while speaking and eating. The healing process after getting a dental implant takes 6 to 12 weeks. Your dentist then places a metal post into your dental implants, onto which they'll mount your dental crown. Whichever of these replacement dental options is best for you, they may be vital in maintaining your oral health. Having guns in areas of loss might cause the other teeth to shift and rotate into empty spaces, resulting in a bad bite. Also, missing teeth can lead to temporomandibular joint disorders and gum disease.

How Long Can a Dental Bridge Last?

Dental professionals have published varying opinions on how long dental bridges can last, mainly because your diet, lifestyle, and oral care routine significantly impact the lifespan of these devices. The North Star Dental Center dentists say bridges can last at least 5-7 years. Proper oral hygiene and regularly visiting your dentist can last over ten years.

How to Care for Your Dental Bridge

Caring for fixed dental bridges requires practicing proper oral hygiene just as you would with your natural teeth. Brush at least twice daily, clean between your teeth, or floss with interdental brushes and water flossers at least once daily, and use helpful products such as antimicrobial mouth rinses and tongue scrapers. Ensure to visit your dentist for regular cleanings to help keep your teeth partly white and bacteria-free and check the health of your implant bridge. To properly care for your removable bridge, you must remove it to clean plaque and food debris from all parts of your bridge daily. Some of the tips one can use to take great care of the placement teeth include:

• After brushing, rinse with clean and cool water. Hot water can warp your dental bridge.
• Clean your removable dental bridge over a sink full of water or a folded towel because if you drop it, it won't break.
• If your dentist advises, only leave your dental bridge in water or a denture-soaking solution overnight. The metal attachments on your removable dental bridge could rust.
• Use a denture brush and cool water or a soft, bristled toothbrush. Also, you can use a denture cleaner but don't use household cleaners or an abrasive toothpaste, which can scratch your bridge surface.

 

What Do I Eat with That Dental Bridge?

When you get to your dental bridge, eating softer foods cut into small pieces on the front or back teeth is the best. You should chew evenly on both sides of your mouth and avoid eating hard, tough, sticky, and chewy foods like:

• Nuts
• Caramel
• Stick
• Chewing gum

These are a few examples of foods that can cause problems to your dental bridge. Ensure you speak with your dentist if you have any questions.