Are you missing one or more consecutive teeth? Do you find that it makes it a tad harder to eat certain foods or causes self-consciousness when speaking or smiling? A tried-and-true solution to this issue is a dental bridge! They are long-lasting and reliable, but that doesn’t mean they are invincible. To ensure that you can keep the restoration for as long as it’s meant to last, continue reading to learn three reasons why it can fail so you can protect your complete smile!
1.) Poor Dental Hygiene
One of the most common culprits for a failed dental bridge is poor oral hygiene! The reason is that this type of restoration is anchored by two abutments, which can be either your natural teeth or dental implants. Bacteria and plaque can build up around the supporting structures and harm them, leading to an unstable foundation and some discomfort.
A great way to avoid this is by brushing twice and flossing once daily! It’s even helpful to use an antibacterial mouthwash to ensure that you get everything. Doing this will not only keep your dental bridge in place, but also your teeth and oral health happy!
2.) Bad Habits
If you tend to bite your nails, pens, or chew ice, then habits like these can wear down your bridge quicker than it should. They are hard materials that put extra pressure on your restoration, sometimes causing cracks or other damage. As well, subconscious teeth grinding or clenching at night can harm your dental bridge. Your dentist can give you a nightguard to help protect your teeth, but you may also try other alternatives like a fidget toy or stress ball.
3.) Avoiding Routine Checkups
A crucial part of maintaining your restoration is to have it regularly checked by your dentist. This is just as important as an at-home routine, as these visits allow for a deep cleaning. When plaque hardens into tartar, it cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing. Additionally, your dentist is trained to watch out for any signs that could indicate a failing prosthetic and tackle them before they cause problems, so stay consistent with your semi-annual appointments!
A dental bridge can last you for over a decade with proper care! While there are reasons why it can fail, taking steps to avoid these common culprits will ensure that it stays in good shape. That way, you can enjoy all the benefits that come from a full smile for many years to come!
About the Practice
At Devonshire Dental of Boston, our team of skilled dentists wants you to have a full set of pearly whites that you are proud to show off. We are happy to help you restore your grin from missing one or a few consecutive teeth with a dental bridge. With high-quality materials, we ensure that it blends into your smile with ease. If you want to learn more about how you can protect your restoration, schedule an appointment or call us at (617) 350-7474.