How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

About 69% of adults aged 35 to 44 have lost at least one tooth due to various reasons, such as an accident, injury, or poor dental hygiene. The totals are staggering: more than 178 million Americans (over half the population) are missing at least one tooth, according to figures from the American College of Prosthodontists.

If you’re among those missing at least one tooth, it’s imperative that you reach out to us as soon as possible. A missing tooth can cause “trickle-down” effects throughout the mouth, leading to further decay, misalignment, and risk of further extractions. So don’t wait; contact our expert dental team today! We also invite you to visit us for a consultation at LANCO Dental Care in Lancaster, PA.

What is a dental bridge?

Like the steel bridges spanning great rivers or gorges, a dental bridge consists of 1 – 3 synthetic teeth anchored to the real teeth on either side of your missing tooth to conceal the gap and fix your bite.

The procedure requires two visits. During the first visit, our expert dentists will shave a bit of enamel from the teeth, which will provide an attachment point for the bridge. A dental impression will provide a blueprint for the perfect placement of your pontic (false tooth). And you may receive a temporary bridge to test the fit and guarantee that your real bridge will be comfortable and aesthetic. Once it’s ready, our detail-attentive professionals will affix it (using strong, unyielding dental cement) to crowns attached to the anchor teeth adjacent to the missing tooth.

How long will your bridge last?

Thanks to your brand new bridge, you’ll notice an almost immediate improvement in both appearance and function. A follow-up appointment may be necessary to improve the fit and ensure a most comfortable placement. Our experienced dental staff will provide instructions for proper care, which includes cleaning around and underneath the bridge. And while its durability depends on multiple factors, with appropriate care and regular check-ups, it could last well over ten years.

It’s crucial to schedule a consultation as soon as possible

If you’re holding off due to anxiety or fear of inconvenience, rest assured that this is a relatively simple, time-tested technique. And “time-tested” may be an understatement – there’s evidence that the ancient Egyptians pioneered this process nearly 4,000 years ago. It’s been used ever since, and modern dental advances have made it safer and more effective than ever.

Alternatively, if you’re delaying the procedure because a single missing tooth may not bother you, consider that this problem could evolve into a much more serious issue. The loss of a tooth causes other nearby teeth to “migrate,” moving in to close the gap and causing spacing issues throughout your mouth, leading to jaw pain, chewing difficulties, and an uneven bite and smile.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about your beautiful new smile

There’s no reason to suffer the discomfort and confidence-draining effects of a missing tooth. Especially when there’s a real risk of further deterioration or damage to your teeth and jaw. We’d love to help find the right solution for you and correct any issues with your smile and bite. So, contact us today at LANCO Dental Care, or visit our practice in Lancaster, PA!