Dental bridges are a fantastic way to replace missing teeth and can last a decade or more with the right care. If you expected yours to last for several more years, it may come as quite a shock if it has fallen out. You probably have plenty of questions like what caused it or what you should do. If you’ve found yourself in this predicament, keep reading to learn more!
What Caused My Dental Bridge to Fall Out?
There are a few reasons this might have occurred, including:
- Tooth decay. Your dental bridge relies on surrounding teeth for support and though it cannot get cavities, bacteria can still penetrate around and underneath it. This can result in tooth decay that can spread and penetrate deep into the roots of your pearly whites. As a result, they lose the structure necessary to support your restoration.
- Irregular bite. If you have a bite alignment issue, you end up putting more force on certain parts of your dental bridge than others, which means there’s an uneven distribution of pressure. This could cause it to loosen or detach.
What Do I Do If My Dental Bridge Falls Out?
It’s normal to feel anxious or worried if your dental bridge just popped out of your mouth but try not to panic. Your dentist has probably dealt with this or similar issues in the past and will have solutions. Take a deep breath, then follow these steps:
- Call your dentist. They’ll want to see you as soon as possible because your vulnerable teeth are exposed without your dental bridge and could sustain an injury while you wait.
- Protect the dental bridge. Find your restoration and gently rinse any debris off of it. Then you can place it in a storage container like a Ziploc bag or small Tupperware to keep it safe. Depending on its condition, your dentist might be able to reattach it, so be sure you remember where you’ve stored it. That way you’ll know where it is when it’s time to leave for your appointment so you can take it with you.
- Be careful eating. If you have a little wait before your dental appointment, be cautious if you eat or drink anything. Your teeth will likely be sensitive, so chew food on the opposite side of your mouth and avoid incredibly hot or cold temperatures.
Once you see your dentist, they’ll assess your situation and then provide treatment options, like reattaching or replacing your dental bridge, so that you can get back to life as usual!
About the Practice
At Devonshire Dental, patients benefit from several dentists who provide a full range of services all under one roof. Their experienced team has years of training and experience enhancing smiles with beautiful and long-lasting dental restorations. With same-day emergency appointments available, you won’t have to wait to get the right help if your dental bridge falls out. You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (617) 350-7474.