Dental bridges are a common prosthetic solution designed to replace one or more missing teeth. These restorations typically consist of an artificial tooth, known as a pontic, held in place by crowns on the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. While bridges can restore chewing function and aesthetic appearance, they also come with specific considerations and potential drawbacks.
Effects on Adjacent Teeth
Traditional dental bridges involve preparing the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth. These teeth must be reshaped by removing a portion of their enamel to accommodate the supporting crowns. This irreversible process permanently alters the natural structure of these teeth.
Once prepared, these abutment teeth become more susceptible to dental issues. Enamel reduction can increase their vulnerability to decay, particularly where the crown meets the tooth structure. Some individuals may also experience heightened sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures following preparation.
Extensive preparation can lead to more serious complications. There is a small risk of nerve damage during reshaping, which could necessitate a root canal treatment for the affected tooth. This highlights the compromise made to healthy teeth to support the bridge.
Ongoing Care and Lifespan
Maintaining proper oral hygiene around a dental bridge presents unique challenges compared to natural teeth. The bridge’s connected crowns and pontic create areas difficult to clean effectively with standard brushing and flossing. Food particles and plaque can accumulate underneath the artificial tooth and around the supporting crowns.
This accumulation of plaque and bacteria increases the risk of gum inflammation (gingivitis) and can progress to gum disease if not meticulously managed. The supporting abutment teeth beneath the crowns are also prone to decay if oral hygiene is inadequate, which can compromise the entire bridge structure.
Dental bridges are not permanent restorations and have a finite lifespan. The typical lifespan ranges from five to fifteen years. Factors such as oral hygiene practices, diet, and materials used can influence their longevity. Eventually, a dental bridge will require replacement due to wear, damage, or issues with the supporting teeth, incurring additional costs over time.
Potential Issues and Bone Changes
Beyond maintenance, dental bridges can encounter other problems. The bridge may experience structural issues such as fracture or debonding from the abutment teeth, which can necessitate repair or complete replacement. The space beneath the pontic (artificial tooth) can also trap food, leading to discomfort or hygiene challenges if not cleaned thoroughly.
Unlike dental implants, traditional bridges do not stimulate the jawbone where the tooth is missing. Over time, this lack of stimulation can lead to gradual bone loss in that specific area.
Bone loss can affect the long-term fit and stability of the bridge. As the jawbone recedes, gaps may form between the gum line and the pontic, which can be aesthetically unappealing and complicate cleaning. Gum recession around the crowned abutment teeth can also occur, sometimes exposing the margins of the crowns or tooth roots, which can lead to sensitivity.