Dental bridges are an incredibly powerful tooth replacement option, capable of taking the place of several teeth at once. That will allow you to talk, smile, and eat in a way that you might not have been able to for a very long time.
If you’re getting dental bridges soon, or just got them recently, you might wonder how long they’re likely to last. Here’s a guide to dental bridges’ lifespan.
How Long Can Dental Bridges Last?
Answering this question is a little bit tricky; so much of how long your dental bridges could last depends on how well you take care of them. However, according to the Cleveland Clinic, dental bridges tend to have a lifespan of anywhere from 5-7 years. If you maintain them well, then you could potentially see them endure for 10 years or more.
How Do You Maintain Your Dental Bridges?
How you maintain your oral appliance depends a little bit on which kind you have. There are two types of dental bridges; removable and non-removable.
Cleaning Removable Bridges
Removable bridges use a small piece of metal to clip onto your teeth. They tend to be the least expensive option, and don’t require surgery or dental cement.
Cleaning removable bridges involves you taking them out, which you should do each night before bed. You can either brush them or soak them in dental cleaning solution while you sleep—both if you’d prefer. It’s important that you not use abrasive toothpaste, stiff toothbrushes, or extremely hot water when you clean your bridges, as each of these can potentially damage them.
Cleaning Non-Removable Bridges
Non-removable bridges are done one of two ways; either a series of dental crowns are connected to each other, or a standard bridge is attached to a series of dental implants secured to the jawbone. In either case, you can clean this bridge the same way you would your natural teeth; brush them thoroughly with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Whether you have fixed or removable bridges, you should see your dentist for regular cleanings. That will keep your teeth shining and your bridge holding strong for as long as possible.
About Our Practice
At Stonebriar Smile Design, we’re prepared to do whatever it takes to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. We have a team of three experienced and dedicated dentists on staff who are more than happy to put their expertise to work for you. We also know that not every procedure is right for every patient, so we won’t push anything onto your that we don’t think you actually need.
If you have any questions about dental bridges, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (469) 361-0081.
