A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It joins an artificial tooth, or pontic, to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. The natural teeth on either side of the gap are called abutment teeth, which are crowned to serve as anchors. Unlike a removable partial denture, a bridge is permanently cemented into place, restoring the ability to chew, speak, and maintain facial shape. The lifespan of this restoration depends heavily on numerous factors, including patient habits and the health of the anchor teeth.
Expected Lifespan of Dental Bridges
The typical lifespan for a dental bridge is between five and fifteen years. With consistent care, a well-maintained bridge often reaches or exceeds the ten-year mark. Longevity is primarily determined by the health and structural integrity of the supporting abutment teeth. A bridge’s lifespan is often shorter compared to a dental implant, which can last 20 years or more because it integrates directly with the jawbone. Since a bridge relies on adjacent natural teeth, decay or gum disease affecting those anchors will compromise the entire restoration, meaning replacement will eventually be necessary.
Factors Influencing Longevity
The material chosen significantly affects the bridge’s durability and resistance to wear. Materials like zirconia and porcelain fused to metal (PFM) offer high strength, with zirconia noted for its toughness against fracture. Material selection is especially important for bridges placed in the back of the mouth, such as molars, which endure higher biting forces. The health of the supporting abutment teeth is a major determinant of success; decay or periodontal disease around these teeth can lead to failure. The patient’s bite alignment, known as occlusion, also plays a substantial role, as uneven pressure can cause mechanical stress, fracturing the bridge or causing it to loosen.
Maximizing Bridge Durability Through Care
Proper daily hygiene is the most influential factor a patient controls in extending the bridge’s life. The area beneath the artificial tooth (pontic) cannot be cleaned with regular floss and requires specialized tools like floss threaders or interdental brushes to remove plaque and food debris. Patients should avoid placing undue stress on the bridge by refraining from chewing hard items like ice or sticky foods. If a patient experiences teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), a custom-fitted nightguard is recommended to protect the bridge and abutment teeth from excessive force. Regular professional dental cleanings and check-ups are also required to monitor supporting tissues and detect issues early.
Signs of Bridge Failure and Next Steps
A common sign a bridge is failing is a feeling of looseness or movement when chewing or speaking. Other warning signs include new or persistent pain and sensitivity in the surrounding teeth, which can indicate decay in the abutment teeth. Visible damage, such as a crack or chip in the structure, also warrants immediate attention. A persistent bad taste or bad breath can signal that food particles and bacteria are accumulating beneath the bridge due to a gap or improper fit. Gum swelling or bleeding near the bridge may indicate gum disease, requiring professional evaluation to determine if repair or complete replacement is necessary.