7 Common Mistakes That Shorten Your Dental Bridge’s Lifespan

When you invest in a dental bridge near you, you expect it to last many years. Dental bridges provide a durable and reliable solution for taking the place of missing teeth and restoring function and appearance. However, common mistakes can shorten the lifespan of your dental bridge. Understanding these pitfalls can help you take better care of your dental bridge, ensuring it remains in top condition for as long as possible.

1. Neglecting Regular Dental Check-ups

Routine visits to the dentist in Winter Springs are very important to the longevity of your dental bridge. Skipping check-ups can lead to unnoticed issues affecting the bridge or surrounding teeth. During your check-ups, your dentist will do an assessment of your bridge for symptoms of wear, looseness, or decay near the supporting teeth.

• How to Prevent This Mistake: Schedule regular visits every 6 months to ensure your dental bridge stays in great shape. Early diagnosis of any problems can help you avoid more extensive treatments.

2. Improper Oral Hygiene Habits

Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most important steps in preserving your dental bridges in Winter Springs, FL. Failing to brush and floss properly around your dental bridge can lead to plaque buildup, which can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and even damage the bridge itself. The gums around your bridge can become infected if not cleaned thoroughly.

• How to Prevent This Mistake: Brush your teeth (2 times) each day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Clean between the bridge and neighboring teeth using dental floss or interdental brushes, making sure all plaque is eliminated.

3. Using Your Teeth as Tools

One of the quickest ways to shorten the lifespan of your dental bridge is to use your teeth as tools. Opening bottles, tearing packages, or chewing on hard objects can place unnecessary stress on your dental bridge and the supporting teeth, leading to cracks or complete failure.

• How to Prevent This Mistake: Always use the proper tools to open bottles or packages. Avoid chewing hard things, such as ice or hard sweets, because they can harm your dental bridge.

4. Chewing Sticky or Hard Foods

Although dental bridges are designed to withstand regular chewing forces, sticky or hard foods can strain your dental work excessively. Foods like caramel, gum, or hard nuts can get stuck in the bridge or put undue pressure on the materials, causing damage.

• How to Prevent This Mistake: Limit or avoid chewing sticky foods like gum or caramel. Also, avoid tough foods like ice and hard candies, which could potentially damage both the bridge and your natural teeth.

5. Smoking and Tobacco Use

Tobacco usage is not only bad for your health, but it can also discolor your dental bridge and cause damage to the surrounding gums. Smoking raises the risk of gum disease, which can compromise the bridge’s integrity and the health of the teeth that support it.

• How to Prevent This Mistake: If you use tobacco, consider quitting to protect the health of your gums, teeth, and dental bridges. Even if you’re not ready to leave, reducing your tobacco consumption can help.

6. Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth

Teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching can be significant problems for individuals with dental bridges. This unconscious habit, often associated with stress or sleep disorders, can put immense pressure on the bridge, leading to cracks or premature wear.

• How to Prevent This Mistake: If you grind or clench your teeth, speak with your dentist’s office near me about getting a custom-made nightguard to protect your dental bridge while you sleep. Addressing stress and anxiety may also help reduce grinding during the day.

7. Ignoring Pain or Discomfort

If you experience pain, discomfort, or a loose bridge, it’s essential not to ignore these signs. These issues may indicate that your dental bridge or the supporting teeth are under stress. Left without treatment, this can lead to further damage or even the need for a complete replacement.

• How to Prevent This Mistake: If you feel discomfort or notice your dental bridge is loose, schedule an appointment with Dr. Fabiola Camacho at 434 Dentistry – Dr. Fabiola Camacho DDS – Winter Springs as soon as possible. Prompt action can prevent complications and save time and money on more extensive treatments.

Conclusion

To maximize the lifespan of your tooth bridges, avoiding these common mistakes is crucial. By upkeeping good oral hygiene, visiting your dentist in Winter Springs regularly, and being mindful of your habits, you can enjoy your dental bridge for many years.

If you’re ever in doubt about caring for your dental bridge or experience any issues, don’t hesitate to reach out at 434 Dentistry – Dr. Fabiola Camacho DDS – Winter Springs for expert advice and treatment.