How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

Dental bridges are an excellent option for tooth replacement. They can fill in that gap in your smile, keep your natural teeth from drifting, and make it easier to chew. Before you make a decision, it’s a good idea to learn what you can about this tooth restoration, like how long a dental bridge will last.

Some dentists say dental bridges will last 5 to 7 years, while others say they can last 10 to 15 years or longer. The truth is that the lifespan of a dental bridge can vary greatly, depending on your diet, oral hygiene routine, and lifestyle. If you clean and care for your bridge properly and protect it from injury and bruxism, it can last 15 or more years, or even a lifetime.

Get the Most Life Out of Your Bridge

If you want your bridge to last a long time, here is what you should do:

Keep a diligent oral hygiene routine. Brush your bridge and natural teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once day. Excellent oral hygiene will help to remove harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar from your bridge and natural teeth before it begins to decay.

Avoid eating certain foods that are hard, chewy, tough, or sticky, like tough meats, caramel, hard candies, nuts, or gum. For the first few days after getting your bridge, stick to softer foods and take small bites.

Protect your bridge from damage. If you are an athlete, wear a mouth guard whenever participating in your sport, to protect your bridge and natural teeth in case of an injury. If you grind your teeth at night, wear a night guard while you sleep to protect your teeth and restorations from damage.

Do you have more questions about dental bridges? Feel free to call or stop by Hale Family Dentistry; we look forward to helping you!