Losing teeth can hamper your smile as well as oral hygiene. Thankfully, there are an array of cosmetic procedures available to fix the problem. From dental implants, crowns to bridges, the solutions can help regain the functionality of your teeth as well as give you an aesthetic smile.
While most of you must be familiar with a dental crown, a dental bridge may seem a novel concept. Dental bridges are quite similar to crowns in their functioning and can be helpful for various cosmetic issues.
But the question in the patient’s mind before undergoing a cosmetic procedure is ’How long will it last? Are they permanent or do I need to replace them frequently?
So we reached out to Dr. Ernesto Carmona, a reputed cosmetic dentist from Austin, Tx to give an insight into the working of dental bridges and their lifespan.
How Do Dental Bridges work?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth that is used to protect or replace our natural teeth. It is made up of two or more crowns and works just like your natural tooth surface would.
The procedure is started by creating abutment teeth, i.e preparing the neighboring teeth that will provide support to the missing teeth(pontic) in between.
The enamel of abutment teeth is shaved down a bit to create space for the dental bridge. The dentist then takes a mold of the teeth to create a customized dental bridge.
Usually, dental bridges are made from porcelain. It is a sturdy, durable material and looks just like your natural teeth. But sometimes, dental bridges can be made from other materials like gold, silver, or porcelain fused to metal.
Once the bridge is ready, it is placed on the teeth. A few adjustments will be made to help them fit perfectly on your teeth. The entire procedure involves minimal pain and can be finished in just 2 sittings.
How Long Will A Dental Bridge Last?
Dental bridges have plenty of advantages. They help replace a tooth lost due to extraction, bone loss, gum disease, and severe tooth decay. A bridge can also be used to cover dental implants.
While the procedure is non-invasive and cost-effective, dental bridges are not 100% permanent. They last really long but eventually will have to be replaced with a new one.
On average, a dental bridge lasts up to 10-15 years. If you have poor oral hygiene, they may need replacement within 5-10 years. But with good care, you can make them last up to 20 years too.
While the materials used to create the dental bridge are quite durable, they are not indestructible. So at some point in your life, they will be damaged and require a replacement.
The best way to make your dental bridge last long is to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly will help prevent the abutment teeth from decay. Regular dental checkups are also helpful in preserving your dental bridge as the dentist can take precautionary measures to prevent any damage.
If you are looking for a cosmetic dentist for dental bridges in Austin, Texas, you can consult Dr. Ernesto Carmona at Austin Prosthetic Dental. With his quality care and excellent craftsmanship, you can get dental bridges that look and feel natural. He will also guide you on how to care for your dental bridges to make them last longer. So book an appointment with him right away to restore your smile and get aesthetic teeth with dental bridges.
Related Posts
