What Can Cause a Dental Bridge to Become Loose?

Dental bridges are designed to be highly durable and function almost just like normal teeth, giving patients the confidence and comfort they deserve in their everyday lives. However, there are some things that may cause a dental bridge to become loose or unstable, like decay beneath the bridge, injury, or chewing hard and sticky foods. With proper care and thoughtful behaviors, however, your dental bridge can last for many years or longer. Here, Naples, FL dentist Dr. Junée F. Gardy of Junée F. Gardy DDS, PA shares important tips for preserving your dental bridge, including what things may loosen a bridge, what to do if your dental bridge feels loose, and more.

What is the purpose of a dental bridge?

Dental bridges offer a convenient and long-lasting solution for replacing multiple and consecutive missing teeth. The dental bridge, which is made up of a series of customized artificial teeth, is cemented to the adjacent teeth or, in the case of an implant-supported bridge, attached to metal screws inserted into the patient's jawbone. By replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge, patients enjoy many benefits, including:

• Enhanced appearance
• Prevention of teeth shifting or moving
• Restored ability to eat, chew, etc.
• Improved comfort
• Boosted self-confidence
• Avoiding the hassle of removable dentures and other removable restorations

Can bridges fall out?

The specialized bonding agent used to cement dental bridges to adjacent teeth is exceptionally strong and designed to last for many, many years. Implant-supported dentures are also considered extremely secure, thanks to the abutment (attachment) between the bridge and implanted screws. However, it is important to adhere to a proper care and lifestyle routine to prevent your bridge from becoming damaged, loose, or otherwise compromised.

What would make a dental bridge loose?

There are a variety of things that could contribute to damage or loosening of a dental bridge, including:

• Eating hard, sticky, or crunchy foods
• Poor oral and dental hygiene
• Cavities or decay under the bridge
• Damage or injury to the mouth
• Clenching and grinding
• Smoking
• Normal wear and tear

What are some tips for keeping my dental bridge in place?

To help prevent your dental bridge from breaking or becoming loose, be sure to:

• Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods — like nuts, taffy, popcorn, ice, and hard candy
• Maintain a proper dental and oral hygiene routine
• Clean around and beneath the bridge, using a water flosser (if recommended) for hard-to-reach places
• Wear a protective sports mouth guard and night guard
• Do not smoke
• Attend your regularly scheduled dental exams and cleanings

What should I do if my dental bridge is loose?

If your dental bridge feels loose, falls out, or breaks, don't hesitate to call our office to schedule a visit as soon as possible. In the meantime, avoid chewing in (or otherwise using) the affected area, keep the area clean, and use dental wax to soften any sharp or uncomfortable areas if needed. Our team will offer additional temporary solutions based on your situation after speaking with you, and we will work to get you in as quickly as possible to repair, restore, or replace your bridge.

Restore a stronger smile with a custom dental bridge in Naples, FL

If you are missing multiple teeth in a row and want a durable, aesthetically pleasing, convenient restorative dentistry solution, you may be an excellent candidate for a dental bridge. Take the first step toward getting the beautiful, seamless smile you deserve today by calling Junée F. Gardy DDS, PA to schedule your private consultation for a custom dental bridge with Naples, FL cosmetic and restorative dentist Dr. Junée F. Gardy.