When concrete bridges collapse, it’s usually because of some structural deficiency. The same can often be said for dental bridges! While these prosthetics are a beautiful and reliable way to replace missing teeth and often last for decades, they can fail without proper care. If you want to make sure your dental bridges stick around for the long haul, continue reading. You’ll find the most common causes of failure and see what you can do to improve your routine.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
The most common reason for dental bridge failure is poor oral care because it’s the gateway for every other issue.
While eating or drinking, a bacterial film called plaque is left behind. If this plaque is allowed to build up around the supporting teeth (abutments) it can cause several dental issues. Once this happens, the stability of the entire bridge can be weakened.
Daily brushing, flossing under the bridge with threaders or a water flosser, and regular checkups are critical to keeping your bridge secure.
2. Gum Disease
Healthy gums are the foundation of any dental restoration. If gum disease develops, it can weaken the bone that holds your abutment teeth in place. As bone and gum support deteriorate, your bridge may loosen or fail.
While advanced gum disease, periodontitis, needs professional treatment to manage, better oral care at home can often reverse early stages.
3. Cavities and Tooth Decay
Even though a bridge covers your teeth, decay can still sneak underneath. If bacteria slip between the crown and natural tooth, decay may go unnoticed until it’s too late. This is why routine dental visits and X-rays are a foundational part of healthy dental work. These appointments help catch issues before they cause major damage.
4. Bad Oral Habits
Your dental bridge is incredibly durable, but if you’re biting down on things you shouldn’t, it can still break. Habits like chewing ice, biting fingernails, or grinding your teeth (bruxism) can strain your bridge. Over time, excessive pressure may cause the cement to weaken or the bridge to fracture.
If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a nightguard to protect your restoration.
5. Poor Fit or Age
An ill-fitting bridge may never sit correctly, making it harder to clean and more likely to fail in the first place. Even well-made bridges don’t last forever. After 10 to 15 years, wear and tear may require replacement. In these cases, the only option is to see your dentist, get an assessment, and replace the bridge when it’s time.
A dental bridge can be a long-lasting solution if you give it the right care. If you notice any looseness, pain, or changes around your bridge, call your dentist right away. Acting quickly can often save your restoration before it’s too late.
About the Practice
At 21st Century Dental of Irving, we know that a strong, reliable dental bridge can make all the difference in your daily life. Our team takes a personalized approach to restorative care, helping patients understand the factors that can affect a bridge’s success and providing the support needed to keep smiles healthy and functional for life. Call (972) 255-3712 to schedule a consultation with our expert team or visit our website to explore other services.