A temporary dental bridge is a provisional restoration placed after teeth are prepared for a permanent bridge but before the final laboratory-made device is ready. Its primary function is to serve as a protective cap and placeholder for the prepared teeth and gums. This protective cover prevents the sensitive, newly shaped teeth from exposure to temperature changes and bacteria, while maintaining the correct spacing and alignment of surrounding teeth. The temporary bridge also serves a cosmetic purpose, ensuring you can speak and eat normally during the waiting period.
Typical Expected Duration
The lifespan of a temporary bridge is intentionally short, designed to last only as long as the fabrication process for the permanent bridge requires. This period typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months, with most patients needing the temporary restoration for approximately two to eight weeks. This duration is determined by the timeline required for the dental laboratory to custom-create the final, durable restoration.
The materials used for these provisional bridges, such as acrylic or composite resin, are chosen for their ease of fabrication but lack the durability of permanent materials like ceramic or metal alloys. The temporary cement used to secure the bridge is also deliberately weaker than permanent cement, ensuring the dentist can remove the provisional bridge easily without damaging the underlying prepared teeth. Consequently, the temporary bridge is not designed to withstand years of normal biting and chewing forces.
Factors Affecting Temporary Bridge Longevity
Several factors influence how well a temporary bridge holds up during its short expected service time. The location of the bridge is significant, as restorations replacing back molars endure much greater biting and chewing forces than those placed on the front teeth. A temporary bridge in the posterior region is inherently more susceptible to fracture or loosening due to this higher mechanical load.
The temporary cement used must balance sufficient hold with easy removal, resulting in a weaker adhesive bond. Habits that introduce lateral or lifting forces, such as clenching, grinding (bruxism), or biting on hard objects, can prematurely compromise the bridge’s seal. Additionally, an existing bite misalignment can place uneven stress on the restoration, accelerating wear or causing the bridge to dislodge.
Essential Care for Maximizing Lifespan
Maintaining the temporary bridge requires specific, careful adjustments to daily habits. Dietary restrictions are necessary; avoid sticky foods like caramels and chewing gum, as these can engage the temporary cement and pull the bridge off the prepared teeth. Hard or crunchy items, such as nuts or ice, must also be avoided because they can easily chip, crack, or fracture the less durable acrylic or resin material.
When eating, chew primarily on the opposite side of the mouth from the temporary bridge to minimize stress on the provisional restoration. Proper cleaning is modified: brush normally, but use a special flossing technique to prevent lifting the bridge. Instead of pulling the floss up through the contact point, pull the floss threader or strand out to the side through the gap near the gumline after cleaning beneath the bridge.
Contingency Plan: When the Temporary Bridge Fails
If a temporary bridge becomes loose, cracks, or falls out before your next appointment, immediate action is necessary to protect the underlying teeth. Carefully retrieve the temporary bridge and contact your dental office to schedule an urgent re-cementation appointment. An exposed prepared tooth is sensitive and risks shifting, which could prevent the permanent bridge from fitting correctly.
If you cannot reach your dentist immediately, you can attempt to temporarily re-seat the bridge using an over-the-counter dental adhesive product, such as denture cement. Never use household glues, such as superglue, as these are toxic and will complicate professional re-cementation. Even with a temporary fix, avoid chewing on that side of the mouth and keep the area clean until the bridge can be professionally secured.