{"id":621,"date":"2024-11-20T19:21:26","date_gmt":"2024-11-20T19:21:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bickfordandshirley.com\/blog\/?p=621"},"modified":"2024-12-18T19:23:20","modified_gmt":"2024-12-18T19:23:20","slug":"clean-connection-how-to-maintain-your-dental-bridge","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bickfordandshirley.com\/blog\/clean-connection-how-to-maintain-your-dental-bridge\/","title":{"rendered":"Clean Connection: How to Maintain Your Dental Bridge"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Your teeth play a critical role in your ability to chew food, enunciate words, and smile confidently. If you have a gap in your grin from one or several consecutively missing teeth, you might feel so self-conscious about your dental condition that you avoid spending time with other people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fortunately, your dentist can provide a dental bridge<\/a> that\u2019s customized to look just like the teeth that went missing, so no one can tell there was ever an issue to begin with. Plus, these restorations can last for years, though it depends on how well it’s maintained. Continue reading to learn more about extending the lifespan of your dental bridge!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What is a Dental Bridge?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This oral appliance contains the correct number of pontics (artificial teeth) to fill in the gap in your grin. These are bookended on each end by a dental crown that will anchor them to healthy abutment teeth or dental implants on either side of the space in your smile. It\u2019s ideal for replacing anywhere from one to four lost teeth in a row.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are two types of dental bridges: removable and fixed. Removable options typically clip onto existing teeth but must be taken out twice daily to be cleaned. Fixed bridges, meanwhile, are cemented in place and can\u2019t be taken out except by your dentist. Both options can be made out of durable porcelain or resin that reflects light like enamel and can be color-matched to your natural teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Typically, you can expect your dental bridge to last 5 to 10+ years, depending on how well you care for it. Whether your restoration is bonded in place or intended to be removed, it\u2019s imperative to thoroughly but gently brush it twice daily and floss between your teeth and along your bridge. Remember to use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste that won\u2019t harm the material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some additional tips that can extend the lifespan of your prosthetics include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n