Common Issues with Dental Bridges and How to Prevent Them

Dental bridges are a fantastic solution for those missing teeth, offering a way to restore both function and aesthetics. As a cosmetic dentist, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative they can be. But let’s face it, they’re not without their issues. I’ve dealt with my fair share of problems related to dental bridges, from minor to complex. The good news? Most of these issues are preventable with the right care and knowledge. So, let’s dive in and explore the common pitfalls and how you can avoid them.

Understanding Dental Bridges

First things first, what exactly are dental bridges? Dental bridges are false teeth, designed to ‘bridge’ the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They’re typically made up of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap these two anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth and false tooth/teeth in between. Sounds simple enough, right? But there’s a lot that can go wrong if you’re not careful.

I remember when I first started practicing in the Bay Area, I had a patient, let’s call him Mr. Smith. He had a dental bridge that seemed to be giving him endless trouble. It started with some slight discomfort, then sensitivity, and before he knew it, he was dealing with a failed bridge and a root canal. It was a wake-up call for me. I realized that while dental bridges are a great solution, they require meticulous planning, precise execution, and diligent aftercare. Otherwise, you might end up with a whole new set of problems.

That’s why I’m writing this article. I want to share the common issues I’ve seen with dental bridges and, more importantly, how you can prevent them. Whether you’re considering a dental bridge, just had one placed, or have had one for years, this article is for you. After all, knowledge is power, right?

Common Issues with Dental Bridges

1. Poor Fit

A poorly fitting dental bridge is like a pair of shoes that don’t fit quite right it might seem okay at first, but it’s going to cause problems down the line. A bridge that’s too high or too low can lead to bite issues, causing discomfort and even pain. Plus, a poor fit can allow bacteria to sneak in, leading to decay or gum disease. Prevention? Ensure your dentist takes precise measurements and impressions. Don’t rush the process. If it doesn’t feel quite right, speak up!

2. Failure of the Anchoring Teeth

Dental bridges rely on the support of the anchoring teeth. If these teeth fail, the entire bridge can be compromised. This can happen due to decay, fracture, or even gum disease. I’ve seen cases where the anchoring teeth weren’t strong enough to begin with, and others where poor oral hygiene led to decay. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider… Maybe I should clarify, prevention here is two-fold: ensuring the anchoring teeth are strong enough to support the bridge, and maintaining excellent oral hygiene.

3. Fracture of the Bridge

Dental bridges can fracture, just like natural teeth. This can happen due to trauma (like an accident or sporting injury) or simply biting down on something hard. I’ve had patients who’ve fractured their bridge eating hard candy or even ice! (I know, I know, we all do it, but try to resist.) The best prevention here is to avoid biting down on hard foods with your bridge and wearing a mouthguard if you play sports.

4. Sensitivity

Some sensitivity is normal after having a dental bridge placed. But if it persists, it could signal an underlying problem. It might be that the bridge is too high, causing excessive pressure on the anchoring teeth. Or it could be a sign of decay or infection. I’m torn between telling you to wait it out or rush to the dentist… but ultimately, if sensitivity persists more than a few weeks, it’s best to get it checked out.

5. Discoloration

Dental bridges, particularly those made of composite resin or porcelain fused to metal, can discolor over time. This can happen due to staining from foods and drinks, or simply due to age. Prevention is all about maintenance avoid stain-causing foods and drinks where possible, and maintain good oral hygiene. Plus, regular professional cleanings can help keep your bridge looking its best.

6. Gum Disease

Gum disease is a common issue with dental bridges, and it’s one that can lead to serious problems if left untreated. It can cause the gums to recede, leading to sensitivity and even loss of the bridge. The best prevention is good oral hygiene brush and floss regularly, and see your dentist for regular check-ups. Maybe I should clarify, flossing with a bridge can be tricky, so ask your dentist for tips.

7. Failure of the Dental Cement

Dental bridges are held in place with dental cement. If this cement fails, the bridge can become loose or even fall out. This can happen due to excessive stress on the bridge, or simply due to the cement breaking down over time. Prevention involves avoiding excessive stress on the bridge (like biting down on hard foods) and seeing your dentist regularly to check the condition of the cement.

8. Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to dental bridges are rare, but they can happen. They can be caused by the materials used in the bridge, or even the dental cement. If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction (like itching, swelling, or rash) after having a dental bridge placed, see your dentist right away. Prevention is about being aware of any allergies you have and discussing them with your dentist beforehand.

9. Difficulty Eating

Some people find it difficult to eat with a dental bridge, particularly at first. It can feel strange and awkward, and some foods might be challenging to eat. Prevention involves giving yourself time to adjust, and avoiding particularly challenging foods at first. Plus, practicing good oral hygiene can help keep your bridge in good condition, making eating easier.

10. Speech Impediments

A dental bridge, particularly an upper bridge, can affect your speech. It can cause lisping or whistling sounds. Prevention here is about giving yourself time to adjust. Practice speaking aloud, and if problems persist, see your dentist they might be able to make adjustments to the bridge to help.

Maintaining Your Dental Bridge

So, we’ve talked about the common issues with dental bridges and how to prevent them. But what about maintaining your bridge in the long run? After all, dental bridges aren’t cheap, so you want to make sure they last. Here are my top tips:

• Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly, and see your dentist for regular check-ups.
• Avoid biting down on hard foods with your bridge.
• Wear a mouthguard if you play sports.
• See your dentist if you notice any problems with your bridge.

Remember, the lifespan of a dental bridge varies greatly depending on the materials used, the health of the supporting teeth, and how well you take care of it. But with the right care, it can last upwards of 15 years. Not too shabby, right?

But What If Something Goes Wrong?

Even with the best prevention, sometimes things go wrong. And that’s okay! The important thing is to act quickly. If you notice any problems with your dental bridge, see your dentist right away. The sooner you address the issue, the better. After all, a small problem can become a big one if left untreated.

And remember, no matter how well you take care of your dental bridge, it won’t last forever. Eventually, it will need to be replaced. But with the right care, you can make the most of your bridge and ensure it serves you well for many years to come.

So, that’s my take on dental bridges. They’re a fantastic solution for missing teeth, but they’re not without their issues. But with the right knowledge and care, you can prevent many of these issues and make the most of your dental bridge. And who knows? Maybe one day we’ll have a truly permanent solution for missing teeth. But until then, dental bridges are a great option.

If you’re considering a dental bridge, or have any questions about maintaining your existing bridge, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always here to help. And remember, knowledge is power the more you know about dental bridges, the better equipped you are to make informed decisions about your oral health.

FAQ

Q: How long do dental bridges last?
A: The lifespan of a dental bridge varies greatly depending on the materials used, the health of the supporting teeth, and how well you take care of it. But with the right care, it can last upwards of 15 years.

Q: How do I clean under my dental bridge?
A: Cleaning under your dental bridge can be a bit tricky, but it’s important for maintaining good oral hygiene. Use a proxy brush or a water flosser to clean underneath the bridge. Your dentist can show you how.

Q: Can I get my dental bridge whitened?
A: Dental bridges can’t be whitened like natural teeth. If your bridge is discolored, it might need to be replaced. Talk to your dentist about your options.

Q: What should I do if my dental bridge feels loose?
A: If your dental bridge feels loose, see your dentist right away. It might need to be recemented or even replaced.

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I’m Dr. Rodrigo, a seasoned cosmetic dentist and doctor with a deep passion for aesthetic medicine, innovative dental care, and beauty enhancements. My journey brought me from the Bay Area to the vibrant city of Istanbul, Turkey, where I now live with my rescue cat, Luna. I write articles for DC Total Care, a popular website that receives over 2 million page views per month. If you’re considering dental treatment in Istanbul, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to help you on your journey to a healthier, happier smile.