Lytle Dental

Blog

Dental hygiene tips for healthy teeth & gums

Common Dental Bridge Problems And How To Avoid Them

Dental bridges are artificial teeth that look and act like natural teeth. They help people with eating, speaking, and teeth positioning. They also add an attractive touch to the personality and give confidence to the person who uses them. However, there are some common dental bridge issues that can be avoided. In this blog, you will learn about common dental bridge problems and ways to prevent them.

What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are artificial teeth that can replace lost teeth. Dentists recommend dental bridges or false teeth if a patient is missing more than one tooth. It corrects the smile, helps in eating and speaking, and protects teeth positioning and spacing.

Some Common types of dental bridge problems are:

Ill-Fitting Issues

Dental devices are designed for personalized use; hence, they must be customized and fitted to the patient’s mouth. In the case of an ill-fitting false tooth, discomfort is only the start of how it can negatively affect you. Gum irritation can quickly result in infection, raised boils, and receding gums around the bridge, all of which cause loss of teeth.

It is essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist to remedy this situation and treat those irritations. There are several reasons a bridge may no longer be a good fit, such as damage or the bridge’s never fit.

Increased Levels of Tooth Sensitivity

Some sensitivity is expected during the first few days after the procedure. If the discomfort persists, one must visit the dentist. The discomfort reduces as bridges heal slowly. When sensitivity persists for more than two weeks or increases in intensity, call your dentist and let them know what is happening. Sometimes, a dental bridge may not fit correctly within your mouth, or it may be the wrong option for you.

Developing Tooth Decay

 

Just like natural teeth, dental bridges also need good oral hygiene. If oral routine is not followed correctly, it can cause tooth decay and lead to tooth depletion. Slowly, the tooth will not be stable enough, and you might need to replace your dental bridge.

Flossing and brushing your teeth daily can help prevent this, along with professional cleanings and exams at your dentist. A denture cleaner can help you to touch the bridge properly.

Cracks in the Anchoring Tooth

When there are small cracks or invisible damage to the anchoring tooth, it can increase tooth sensitivity. These tiny cracks can cause tooth decay as bacteria can easily seep into and damage nerves and gums. Other than tooth decay, these cracks can also result in serious dental infections.

If you observe cracks on the neighboring and anchoring teeth or feel enhanced sensitivity, visit your dentist. If the damage is irreversible, the dentist might treat the anchoring teeth first before fixing the dental bridge.

Damage to the Dental Bridge Itself

A dental bridge comprises solid and durable materials, such as metals, porcelain, or combinations of metal and ceramics. However, they are not indestructible. One can damage the bridge by rinsing it in boiling hot water, eating too stiff or sticky foods, or experiencing a fall to the area of the mouth. These reasons often happen during sports competitions or car accidents.

The dental bridge must be replaced if damage occurs to its structure. However, if the bridge is damaged, oral health issues can result, including gum disease and infection.

Final Thought

Dental Bridges must be kept clean and hygienic at all times. If you support and treat them and the natural teeth, they can stay new for many years. When you remove them, please keep them in a solution in an airtight container and put the box in someplace safe.

Most bridges are damaged by falls when not placed in the mouth. Also, brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups can help you understand the early signs of gum disease. Good oral hygiene and precaution is the easiest and most effective way to avoid dental bridge problems.