Common Dental Bridge Accidents—and How to Prevent Them!

Several factors can lead to missing teeth: sudden accidents, extensive decay, untreated periodontitis… Whatever the cause, once it has happened, replacing your missing teeth with restoration options like dental bridges in Pompano Beach right away can prevent further problems, like teeth shifting, trouble eating, and discomfort.

Bridges are reliable restorations that, with proper care, can last up to 20 years. Besides brushing them twice a day and getting regular check-ups, understanding dental bridge emergencies—and how to treat them—is crucial.

5 Common Dental Bridge Accidents You Need to Be Aware Of

Bridge Dislodgement or Loosening

Trauma, like sudden hits to the face or biting into hard foods, can cause your bridge to become loose or completely dislodged. Additionally, the dental cement can wear out over time.

A slightly dislodged bridge is a serious issue as it allows bacteria to enter, potentially exposing the underlying supporting teeth to decay.

• A bridge can easily be reattached after checking that the underlying teeth are still healthy and decay-free.

Fractured or Chipped Bridge

Accidents, such as falls or impacts to the mouth, can cause the bridge structure to chip or fracture, especially if made of porcelain or ceramic materials.

With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges tend to last between 5 and 15 years on average. However, accidents can happen, considerably shortening the lifetime of your dental restoration.

• Minor chips or fractures in the bridge material may be repaired with dental bonding or composite resin. However, if your restoration breaks in half, it will probably need to be replaced.

Tooth Decay Under the Bridge

If the abutment (supporting) teeth are not properly cleaned, decay can develop beneath the crowns, compromising the bridge’s stability and health.

• If decay is identified, we’ll need to remove the bridge, restore the supporting teeth, and assess whether they’re strong enough to withstand the pressure of your bridge from now on. We’ll also give you some oral hygiene tips to prevent further decay, like scheduling professional cleanings every six months!

Gum Recession

Gum recession around the bridge can expose its margins, making the area more vulnerable to infection or aesthetic concerns.

This is often a result of bad oral hygiene habits, which lead to plaque accumulation around the gum line. Bacterial plaque releases acids that irritate the gums, making them inflamed. Eventually, they start to pull back from the teeth.

Additionally, improperly placed bridges can irritate the gum line, causing recession. To prevent that, it’s important to let your dentist know of any discomfort you’re experiencing right away.

• To protect your bridge, your dentist will suggest periodontal treatments like scaling and root planing to remove the irritating plaque. If a badly fitting bridge is the problem, we’ll remove the restoration and replace it with a better one.

Damage from Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Bruxism is a condition in which you squeeze or rub your teeth together. It can happen during the day or night, and people are often unaware they’re doing it.

Without treatment, bruxism can become a serious issue, leading to jaw pain, headaches, damaged teeth, and other problems. In patients with restorations, it can wear down or crack a bridge, especially if it’s not protected by a night guard, leading to premature failure or discomfort.

• Night guards act as a cushion between your teeth, absorbing the impact of bruxism. If we notice any signs of wear and tear, we’ll suggest you get one customized.

Tips to Make Your Dental Bridges in Pompano Beach Last

The secret to a healthy smile is good oral care. To protect your new bridge and maintain your natural ones, brushing after every meal, flossing daily, and using fluoride toothpaste will set your smile on the right track for years to come.

And if you notice any of these common bridge emergencies, contact Park Plaza Dental right away for immediate treatment. We’ll identify the source of the problem and solve it to prevent it from spreading any further.