A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic designed to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth (pontic) between two crowns placed on adjacent natural teeth. While bridges are durable, they are not indestructible, and a crack requires the immediate attention of a dental professional. Attempting to repair a cracked bridge at home is strongly discouraged, as this can worsen the damage or cause oral complications. Understanding professional solutions and managing the crack appropriately protects your oral health and the longevity of your restoration.
Immediate Steps Following a Crack
The first action upon noticing a crack is to contact your dentist immediately to schedule an urgent examination. While waiting for your appointment, take proactive measures to prevent further injury and manage discomfort. If the crack has created a sharp edge irritating your tongue, cheek, or gums, cover the area with dental wax, available at most pharmacies.
To avoid placing unnecessary stress on the damaged prosthetic, switch to a diet of soft foods and strictly avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can manage pain or inflammation until your appointment. If a piece of the bridge has broken off, carefully retrieve it and place it in a clean container; the dentist may need to examine the fragment to determine the best repair approach.
Professional Repair Methods for Minor Damage
When a crack is superficial or only affects the outer layer of the bridge, a dentist can often perform a localized repair without replacing the entire structure. For small chips or hairline cracks in the porcelain coating, a common method involves using composite resin bonding. This tooth-colored material is applied directly to the damaged surface, shaped to restore the bridge’s original contour, and then hardened with a special light.
In cases of more substantial chipping, specialized porcelain repair kits may be used, involving bonding agents and porcelain etchants designed to adhere to the ceramic material. These repairs are primarily cosmetic, restoring the bridge’s smooth surface and aesthetic appearance. They generally do not reinforce the structural integrity of the underlying framework. If the bridge is loose but otherwise intact, the dentist can clean the bridge and the abutment teeth before re-cementing it back into place.
When Total Replacement Becomes Necessary
A dental bridge cannot be repaired when the crack extends beyond the porcelain veneer and compromises the underlying metal or zirconia framework. This structural failure means the bridge’s foundational strength is lost, making it susceptible to breakage under normal chewing forces. Replacement is also mandatory if the bridge’s fit is compromised, which can happen due to significant wear or a change in the shape of the supporting abutment teeth.
An ill-fitting bridge creates microscopic gaps where bacteria can leak underneath the crowns, leading to decay in the natural abutment teeth. If decay progresses significantly, the abutment teeth may no longer be strong enough to support a fixed prosthetic, necessitating the removal of the bridge. The dentist will then remove the old bridge, prepare the supporting teeth again, take new impressions, and fabricate an entirely new custom prosthetic.
Strategies for Preventing Future Damage
Protecting a dental bridge from future cracks relies on careful attention to habits and oral hygiene. One of the most common causes of cracks and structural failure is bruxism, or teeth grinding, which places excessive force on the prosthetic. For individuals who grind their teeth, a custom-fitted night guard is a highly effective preventative measure, cushioning the force and protecting the bridge while sleeping.
Dietary modifications are also important, as certain foods can put damaging stress on the bridge materials. To prevent damage, avoid foods that place excessive stress on the bridge:
- Hard foods, including ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy.
- Sticky items.
- Chewy items.
Maintaining meticulous oral hygiene is crucial, as decay in the supporting natural teeth can weaken the foundation, leading to bridge failure. This routine should include using specialized tools like floss threaders or water flossers to clean thoroughly beneath the pontic and around the abutment teeth every day.