If you are looking for effective and long-term tooth replacement options, dental bridges are worth considering. They not only restore your smile’s appearance but also provide full function as well. But, how long can you expect dental bridges to last? Let’s find out in this blog.
Average Dental Bridge Lifespan
Dental bridges are a strong and lasting way to replace missing teeth. On average, dental bridges last between 5 and 15 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, they can even last up to 20 years or even longer.
There are quite a few factors that influence how long a dental bridge lasts, such as the type of bridge, the materials used, oral hygiene habits, and more.
Dental Bridge Lifespan by Their Type
Primarily, the type of dental bridge you choose affects how long it lasts:
- Traditional bridges are supported by crowns on adjacent teeth and last between 10 and 15 years.
- Cantilever bridges are only supported by one side. They tend to last between 5 and 10 years.
- Mayland bridges have a metal or porcelain frame at the back of nearby teeth. They typically last 5 to 10 years.
- Dental implants anchor implant-supported bridges and last for 15 to 25 years or even longer.
Factors Influencing How Long Dental Bridges Last
Apart from the type of bridge, several other factors play a role in determining how long dental bridges last, such as:
- Dental Bridge Material
The top materials used for dental bridges include porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, gold or alloys, and zirconia. Each material has a different lifespan, ranging from 10 to 20 years. You can refer to your dentist to select the best one in your case. - Oral Hygiene
One of the most important factors that determines how long dental bridges last is oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily, especially cleaning under and around the bridge, is essential. This helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can damage the teeth supporting the bridge and cause it to fail. - Diet
Eating hard foods like nuts, ice, or hard candy can crack or loosen the bridge. Sticky foods such as caramel or chewing gum may pull on the bridge and weaken it. In order to improve your dental bridge’s lifespan, it is important to choose the right things to eat. - Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups are key to helping your dental bridges last longer. Your dentist will check the condition of the bridge and the health of the surrounding teeth and gums. Any potential concerns can be taken care of immediately. - Lifestyle Habits
If you grind or clench your teeth, especially while sleeping, it puts extra pressure on the bridge, which can cause it to crack or come loose. Wearing a night guard can help protect your bridge in this case. It’s also important not to use your teeth to open packages or bite on hard objects, as this can damage the bridge. - Location of Bridge
Lastly, the location of the bridge affects how long it lasts. Bridges placed in the back of your mouth experience more force during chewing, so they may wear out faster than bridges in the front, which deal with less pressure.
Overall Insight
Dental bridges can last 5 to 15 years, based on their type and material. Individual factors like diet, oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, lifestyle habits, and location of the bridge can also affect how long they typically last.
If you are considering dental bridges, get a personalized consultation with our top dentist, Dr. Kirolls Ibrahim, at Céline Dental Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics. Book an appointment by calling us at (281) 262-2332.