What Is the Average Dental Bridge Lifespan?

Do you take your car or truck to a mechanic for regular oil changes? This one step can make a big difference when it comes to keeping your vehicle worthy for the road. Proper care and maintenance are also essential to extending the lifespan of a dental bridge. But just how long can you expect your replacement teeth to last? Keep reading to learn more about the average dental bridge lifespan in Lakeway and how to care for your dental prosthetic.

What the Experts Say

According to the experts at the Cleveland Clinic, dental bridges typically last between five to seven years. Meanwhile, researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have concluded that with good oral hygiene, most dental bridges can last more than 10 years – maybe even a lifetime! While every case is different, these figures can give you a good idea of how long you can expect your dental bridge to last.

Common Problems with Dental Bridges

Although bridges are a reliable way to replace consecutive missing teeth, problems can sometimes occur. The following common issues can limit the lifespan of your dental prosthetic:

• Food caught under the dental bridge
• Harmful plaque and tartar buildup
• Damage from hard or crunchy foods

3 Ways to Extend the Lifespan of Your Dental Bridge

Protect and preserve your dental bridge with the following oral care tips.

#1: Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

A dental bridge is not made from enamel and therefore cannot get cavities. However, the teeth supporting a bridge are still susceptible to decay. Follow these tips to keep your natural teeth and dental bridge in great shape:

• Brush twice a day for a full two minutes each time
• Use a special floss threader to clean underneath your bridge
• Rinse regularly with an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash

#2: Eat a Bridge-Friendly Diet

Chewing on hard and sticky foods can place stress on a dental bridge and lead to damage. For this reason, you should avoid eating nuts, popcorn, caramel, raw vegetables, gum, ice and hard candies. You should also limit your consumption of sugary or starchy foods, which can contribute to tooth decay. Opt instead for fruits, soft or cooked vegetables, and high-fiber foods.

#3: Visit a Dentist in Lakeway

Biannual visits to a dentist in Lakeway are essential for maintaining a healthy smile. During every dental exam, your dentist will carefully inspect your bridge and the surrounding area for signs of trouble. In addition, your dentist or dental hygienist will remove any plaque and tartar buildup that could damage your teeth and gums.

With a little care, a dental bridge can restore your smile for many years to come. Talk to your dentist today to learn if you could benefit from this popular tooth replacement option!

About the Author

Dr. Winston Eaddy has over 40 years of experience rebuilding patients’ smiles. He regularly places high-quality dental bridges, crowns, and dental implants at his private practice. To learn more about the dental bridge lifespans in Lakeway, visit the Eaddy Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry website or call (512) 263-4252.