You should consider getting a dental bridge in Round Rock if you have several missing teeth. This appliance could fill all your smile gaps at the same time! Still, you may want to confirm the procedure’s lifespan first. After all, your treatment won’t be cost-effective if it doesn’t last a while. Fortunately, though, your local dentist is here to help you out. Read on to learn about dental bridges, their lifespan, and how to make them last longer.
What’s a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic that replaces three or more pearly whites. It consists of two or more dental crowns placed on either side of one false tooth or several false teeth.
In general, there are two types of dental bridges. They are:
- Removable Bridges – These bridges have crowns on either end that clip onto existing teeth. As a result, they need daily cleaning to work properly. Many consider them a good option due to their low cost and not requiring surgery.
- Fixed Bridges – Fixed bridges come in two kinds. The first is similar to a removable one in that each end caps a natural tooth; the difference is that they’re cemented. Meanwhile, the other fixed bridge is attached to dental implants instead of crowns.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
Bridges’ lifespan is influenced by lifestyle, so dentists have varying opinions.
The Cleveland Clinic states that the devices can last five to seven years. That number can reach over ten if you apply good oral hygiene.
The University of Rochester Medical Center tends to agree. It claims that well-maintained bridges range from ten years to even a lifetime.
How to Extend Your Dental Bridge’s Lifespan
For your own bridge to last as long as possible, you’ll need to maintain it. That said, consider following the care tips below:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Remember to brush twice daily, floss once daily, and rinse with fluoridated mouthwash.
- Avoid bad habits: Actions like smoking, fingernail-biting, pencil-chewing, and using your teeth as tools will likely damage your bridge.
- Watch your diet: Don’t eat tough foods, as they can easily harm your appliance.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Always visit your dentist for your six-month checkups and cleanings to ensure nothing is wrong!
In the end, a dental bridge from Round Rock is a wise investment if you treat it well. Therefore, practice the tips above so your restored smile will last many years!
About the Practice
Chisholm Trail Dental Health is based in Round Rock, TX. As led by Dr. Mike Asay, the practice performs comprehensive, top-of-the-line dental care. To that end, its staff offers preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including emergency procedures as necessary. The team is also a certified provider of Invisalign® and ClearCorrect ™. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach them on their website or by phone at (512)-244-2796.