Losing teeth from injury, decay, or gum disease can lead to your dentist suggesting a dental bridge to restore your smile. This fixed dental item improves both the functionality and beauty of your smile. But how long will this dental bridge last? See the usual lifespan of dental bridges and the factors that affect their durability.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a structure made of two or more crowns that attach to healthy teeth (called abutment teeth) on each side of a gap. These crowns support one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, that fill in the spaces left by missing natural teeth. Bridges can be made of porcelain, ceramics, or precious metals such as gold.
How long does a dental bridge last?
The lifespan of a dental bridge can vary, but permanent dental bridges last an average of 5 to 15 years. With good care and regular dental check-ups, some bridges can last for 20 years or longer. However, it’s important to remember that bridges are not permanent restorations and will eventually need to be replaced or repaired.
Here are some general guidelines for how long teeth bridges last based on different types:
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Bridges: These bridges can last 10 to 15 years on average, with some lasting up to 20 years or more with excellent oral hygiene and care.
- All-Ceramic Bridges: These bridges, made from materials like zirconia or lithium disilicate, can last 10 to 15 years or even longer if well-maintained.
- Gold or Metal Alloy Bridges: These durable bridges can potentially last 15 to 20 years or more, depending on the individual’s oral health and habits.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of a Dental Bridge
Several factors can affect the lifespan of a dental bridge, including:
- Type of Bridge: Dental bridges come in various styles, including standard, cantilever, and Maryland. Traditional bridges are the most frequent, consisting of porcelain fused with metal or clay. Cantilever bridges are utilized when teeth are only on one side of a gap, while Maryland bridges are resin-bonded bridges requiring less surrounding teeth preparation. The type of bridge can affect its longevity, with traditional bridges being the most durable.
- Materials Used: The materials used to make the bridge can also affect its lifespan. Porcelain fused to metal bridges is solid and durable, but the porcelain can chip or break over time. All ceramic bridges are more aesthetically beautiful, but they may not be as durable as porcelain fused to metal bridges. Your dentist will select the best material for your bridge based on your requirements.
- Location of the Bridge: The bridge’s placement in your mouth might also influence its longevity. Bridges in the back of the mouth may experience more wear and tear from chewing and may not last as long as bridges in the front of the mouth.
- Oral Hygiene: Proper oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the longevity of your dental bridge. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and having regular dental check-ups will help prevent decay and gum disease, which can weaken the supporting teeth and gums.
- Chewing Habits: Your chewing habits can also influence the longevity of your dental bridge. Avoid chewing on hard foods or items, such as ice or pens, as this can harm the bridge and reduce longevity.
Overall Health: Your overall health can also influence the lifetime of your dental bridge. Diabetes and gum disease are two conditions that might impact the health of your teeth and gums, reducing the longevity of your bridge.
Can a dental bridge last a lifetime?
Although a dental bridge can last a lifetime with exceptional care, it’s generally unrealistic to expect it to last forever. Even the most durable bridges can wear out, loosen, or have other issues that may require replacement over time.
However, by following your dentist’s advice, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and addressing any problems quickly, you can extend the life of your dental bridge and potentially benefit from it for many years.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Dental Bridge
To help your dental bridge last as long as possible, follow these tips:
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Keep your mouth clean by brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash. Pay particular care to cleaning the bridge and supporting teeth.
- Avoid Habits That Can Damage the Bridge: Don’t chew on hard objects, bite your nails, or use your teeth to open packages, as these habits can damage or dislodge your bridge.
- Wear a Night Guard (If Recommended): If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend wearing a night guard to prevent excessive wear on your bridge and natural teeth.
- Follow a Tooth-Friendly Diet: Limit sticky, rigid, or crunchy foods that can damage your teeth or dislodge your bridge. Also, avoid excessive consumption of staining drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine.
- Attend Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. This allows your dentist to monitor the bridge’s condition and address any difficulties as they arise.
By following these steps, you can help ensure your dental bridge provides you with a beautiful, functional smile for many years.
Get To Know More About Dental Bridge Lifespan
A dental bridge is an effective solution for replacing missing teeth and can last many years with proper care. Most dental bridges endure between 5 and 15 years, although some can last 20 years or more. The type of bridge, the materials utilized, and mouth hygiene habits all influence its longevity. By maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding harmful habits, wearing a night guard if needed, following a tooth-friendly diet, and attending regular dental check-ups, you can help extend the life of your dental bridge and enjoy its benefits for a long time.