A dental bridge is a fixed dental prosthetic designed to replace one or more missing teeth, effectively bridging the gap in a smile. This restoration aims to restore chewing function, enhance appearance, and prevent adjacent natural teeth from shifting. While dental bridges are generally durable, they can sustain damage. Repair or replacement depends on the nature and extent of the damage, requiring professional dental evaluation.
Types of Bridge Damage and Repair Possibilities
Dental bridges, though robust, can experience various forms of damage that can be repaired. Minor chips or small cracks on the porcelain surface can often be addressed directly. Dentists typically use tooth-colored composite resin, similar to material used for dental fillings, to bond and restore the damaged area, preserving its aesthetic and function.
A common issue involves a bridge becoming loose due to dental cement degradation or failure. If the bridge and underlying abutment teeth remain healthy, the bridge can be successfully re-cemented. This process involves cleaning the bridge and supporting teeth, then securely re-bonding it into position.
Minor fractures to the natural teeth that support the bridge, known as abutment teeth, might allow repair without replacement. If the fracture is superficial and does not compromise the tooth’s structural integrity, a dentist may treat it. Assessment is necessary to determine if repair is viable or if underlying tooth damage requires a different approach.
When a Bridge Needs Replacement
A dental bridge cannot always be repaired and sometimes requires replacement. Severe structural damage, such as a fractured framework (the underlying metal or zirconia structure) or extensive cracks, renders it irreparable. In these cases, the entire bridge must be replaced.
Significant decay developing under the natural teeth supporting the bridge is another common reason for replacement. When the abutment teeth suffer extensive decay, especially beneath the crowns, the bridge must be removed for treatment. If the decay is widespread or supporting teeth are too compromised, a new bridge or alternative restorative solution becomes necessary.
Failure of an abutment tooth also dictates bridge replacement. If one or more of the supporting teeth become damaged, fractured, or require extraction due to conditions like advanced periodontal disease, the existing bridge loses support. This requires removal of the old bridge and placement of a new one, or consideration of alternative treatments such as dental implants.
If a dental bridge no longer fits snugly against the gum line, it can create gaps that trap food particles and bacteria. This poor fit can lead to new decay on the abutment teeth or gum inflammation, making replacement necessary to prevent further oral health complications.
Signs of Bridge Issues
Recognizing signs of a dental bridge issue is important. Pain or increased sensitivity when biting, chewing, or in response to hot or cold temperatures can indicate a problem with the bridge or its supporting teeth. This discomfort might suggest underlying decay or an ill-fitting restoration.
Visible damage, such as a chipped or cracked porcelain surface, or a noticeable gap between the bridge and the gum line, indicates an issue. A feeling of looseness, wobbling, or shifting of the bridge during chewing also signals a potential problem with its stability.
Other signs include food consistently getting stuck underneath or around the bridge, which may point to a poor fit. Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste can suggest bacterial accumulation or decay beneath the bridge. Swelling or redness of the gums surrounding the bridge could indicate inflammation or an underlying infection.
Maintaining Your Dental Bridge
Proper care is important for prolonging the lifespan of a dental bridge and minimizing the risk of damage. Consistent oral hygiene practices include brushing at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Daily flossing is also necessary, especially using specialized tools like floss threaders or superfloss, which allow for effective cleaning underneath the pontic and around the crowns supporting the bridge.
Avoiding certain foods can also help protect your bridge. Limit chewing on hard items such as ice, hard candies, or nuts, and be cautious with very sticky foods, as these can potentially dislodge or damage the restoration.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for the longevity of a bridge. These routine visits allow the dentist to monitor the bridge’s condition, detect any issues early, and provide thorough cleanings that cannot be achieved at home. If an individual grinds their teeth, known as bruxism, wearing a custom-fitted nightguard can protect the bridge from excessive forces and extend its functional life.