Answers to 4 Common Questions About Dental Bridges
May 4 2021 by Mills Haven Dental
Dental bridges are an incredible invention that can replace one or more missing teeth. There are different types of bridges, but one thing stays the same: the questions that people ask about them.
We’ve identified the four questions we get asked the MOST about dental bridges. Let’s go through the answers together!
Do Dental Bridges HURT?
If you have a new dental bridge, don’t be alarmed if you experience a little bit of tenderness for the first week. However, after that week has passed, you shouldn’t experience any pain.
Dental bridges are designed specifically for you; that way they can fit comfortably in your mouth, so persistent pain is cause for alarm. Pain could be your body telling you that something is wrong, such as:
- Improper fit.
- Decay under the supporting crown.
- Gingivitis or gum disease.
If you experience pain for more than 7 days, get in touch with your dentist and set up an appointment soon.
Do Dental Bridges LAST?
Dental bridges usually don't last forever, but you can get a good 10 to 15 years out of them with proper care. To make your dental bridge last, make sure you:
- Brush and floss every day.
- Regularly visit your dentist.
- Update your dental team on any pain or discomfort.
Even with the best care, it’s possible that your dental bridge will need to be replaced eventually. If you take good care of your teeth, your dentist should be able to replace your bridgework when the time comes.
Do Dental Bridges SMELL?
Your dental bridges should not have a bad odour. If you feel like your bridges are giving off a funky smell, even with great hygiene practices, it’s possible that your bridge has become loose.
Loose bridges allow for food to get trapped underneath the bridge. That means these food particles can start to decay and breed foul-smelling bacteria. Of course, this isn’t what you want from your bridge, and you should see your dentist immediately for a bridge readjustment.
While you’re waiting to see your dentist, keep up with your hygiene practices and maybe switch it up a bit. Now might be the time to try a new mouthwash or toothpaste.
Do Dental Bridges LOOK NATURAL?
The short answer? YES!
Modern-day dental bridges are intended to resemble your natural teeth. This is one of the reasons that so many Canadians love them. However, there are different kinds of materials that are used to make dental bridges—and some look more natural than others. Dentists choose materials based on what they think is best for an individual patient.
The best part is that dental bridges also function like natural teeth. Once your mouth has adjusted to your new bridge, you’ll be able to treat them just like regular teeth.
Dental bridges also maintain the long-term structure of your bite—missing teeth can cause tons of problems as your teeth will shift around when they have extra room.