How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

A dental bridge is a replacement option for a missing tooth. It can help your smile look more natural and allow you to chew effectively in that part of your mouth. A bridge can replace one or a few teeth in a row. 

Is a dental bridge the right tooth replacement option for you? How long do dental bridges last? Are there other tooth replacement options available? Learn the answers to these questions and more about dental bridges and tooth replacement. 

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic that replaces one or more teeth. A bridge looks like a row of artificial teeth that are connected to each other in one piece. Both ends consist of crowns that fit over the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, using those teeth for support. The support teeth must be reduced in size to make room for the crowns to fit over them. 

An implant supported bridge is another option. When 3 or more teeth are missing in a row, two dental implants can be placed in the jaw bone on either side of the gap to support a longer bridge. 

Average Lifespan of a Dental Bridge

A traditional dental bridge may last anywhere from 5-15 years. That means that the average lifespan of a dental bridge is 10 years. An implant supported bridge can last for 10-20 years, meaning the average lifespan may be longer. However, in many cases bridges last much longer than average. Under certain circumstances you could have a bridge that lasts for more than 20 years.

What Can Help a Dental Bridge Last Longer?  

To get the most out of your dental bridge, it helps to do the following: 

• Excellent oral hygiene. The longevity of a dental bridge depends greatly on oral hygiene. It is necessary to keep the support teeth as healthy as possible so that they can provide adequate, lasting support. If the support teeth are damaged, the bridge won’t be well supported. It is also important to clean the area between your bridge and gums. There are special brushes and water flossers that can make it easier to keep dental prosthetics clean. 
• Regular dental appointments. It is important to go to the dentist every 6 months to have your teeth cleaned and your mouth examined. Your dentist will check the condition and fit of your bridge at each appointment to ensure that it is still in good shape and working effectively. If there are any problems with it, your dentist can provide any necessary adjustments that can prevent damage to the support teeth. 
• Careful eating and chewing. You can extend the life of your dental bridge by avoiding hard foods that could damage your bridge or the support teeth. Or avoid chewing hard foods in the location of your dental bridge.
• Wear a mouthguard for teeth grinding. If you grind your teeth you can avoid damage to your bridge and other teeth or prosthetics by wearing a mouthguard at night. 
• Choosing a quality prosthetic. A dental bridge is typically made out of porcelain, but bridges can be made out of composite or other materials. Porcelain is considered to be the highest quality material for dental bridges. It also looks very natural and may last longer than composite or other lower quality materials.  
• Going to a highly qualified dentist. A large part of the success and longevity of a dental bridge depends on the dentist who creates and places it. A bridge that fits properly and is placed securely will last longer than an ill-fitting bridge. 

What Are the Alternative Tooth Replacement Options?

To replace one or more teeth, an alternative option is dental implants. Dental implants are considered to be the highest quality tooth replacement option and are often recommended and preferred over dental bridges. A dental implant is placed directly in the bone of the jaw, providing a replacement for the natural root of a tooth. A crown can be attached to the implant to replace a single tooth. Implant supported dentures can replace some or all of the teeth with anywhere from 4-6 implants for support. 

Which Option is Right For Me?

There are a few things to consider when choosing between tooth replacement options. One factor is the bone structure of your jaw. If one or more teeth have been missing for a while, the jaw bone that supported the tooth may have weakened and even dissolved. Without sufficient bone structure, a dental implant won’t be successful. This could mean that a dental bridge would be a better option for you. 

However, bone grafting is a procedure that can strengthen the bone and make it possible for a dental implant to be placed. With this preparatory procedure, many patients are able to get dental implants for a higher quality tooth restoration. 

Why Choose Fallin Family Dentistry?

Fallin Family Dentistry specializes in the placement of dental implants and implant supported bridges and dentures. After a brief evaluation, we can make a recommendation for the tooth replacement option that would be in your best interest, taking your individual situation and preferences into consideration. 

To learn more, contact us today and schedule an appointment.