How long do dental bridges last?

What decides the lifespan of a dental bridge?

In general, the durability of a dental bridge cannot be pre-determined or fixed for a specific number of years. It varies from one individual to another and is also influenced by several factors, such as the type of dental bridge, oral health and maintenance, the need for new restoration, and most importantly, the quality of treatment.

Now, let’s touch base on all these factors one by one.

1. One individual to another

Firstly, these custom-made dental bridges are preferred only when a permanent fixture is not feasible or suitable for the individual. Secondly, the individual has the liberty to choose between metal and porcelain bridges. Those who are worried about the functional aspects (like biting, speech, etc.) prefer conventional metal bridges, which can solve their problem but might not look as aesthetic as porcelain bridges.

On the other hand, porcelain bridges ensure they resemble your natural teeth and give an aesthetic look, retaining your smile. However, metal bridges tend to last longer than porcelain bridges.

2. Types of dental bridges

Based on the mode of bridging, they are classified into fixed or removable. Fixed bridges are bonded to the surrounding natural crown and cannot be taken out for cleaning or other purposes. Whereas removable bridges can easily be taken out, cleaned, and then put back. When compared, fixed bridges seem to last longer than removable ones, owing to wear and tear multiple times.

Based on the technical aspects, the types include:

• Traditional Bridges:This restorative dentistry bridge is supported by natural teeth on either side of the bridge. These bridges last longer as they are well-supported.
• Cantilever Bridges: These bridges are supported by a natural crown or tooth only on one side of the gap. Hence, these cannot last as long as the previous bridge type.
• Implant-supported Bridges: As the name implies, these bridges are restored upon existing dental implants or abutments in the mouth. These bridges can stand for a very long time.
• Bonded Bridges: These bridges are supported by the metal or porcelain wings attached to the adjacent natural crowns. These bridges can also last for a long period.

3. Quality of oral health

This is one of the main factors that can potentially and directly affect the lifespan of dental bridges. When oral health is well maintained regularly, the lifespan increases. Alternatively, when oral health is affected, the lifespan is also shortened.

4. Quality of restorative treatment

Experienced general dentists help with perfect and flawless restoration without affecting the quality of adjacent abutments, and also ensure they follow the latest restoration techniques and use top-notch quality resin or cement for bonding. Moreover, they insist patients visit them for regular evaluations that help track the restorations from time to time. Thus, the maximum you stick to your dentist’s exams and checkups, the higher the number of years your bridges can last, and vice versa.

Conclusion

Most dental restoration bridges last anywhere between seven and fifteen years. When all the factors associated are favorable, you can easily increase the life of bridges. Believe it or not, general dentists can even help with lifelong bridges with no second replacement. For example, Pristine Dental and Orthodontics is one such dental healthcare centre that offers great tips and guidance for lifelong dental bridges in Arnold, MO, and also helps with regular cleaning during their scheduled checkups, which adds more life to the restorations.