If you lose one or more teeth, you don’t have to worry about your smile or bite. Investing in a dental bridge can restore your smile by using the teeth on either side of the open space in your mouth to support replacement teeth.
But if something goes wrong with your bridge, can the device be repaired without needing a new one? How do bridges get damaged in the first place? Dentist Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., P.A., explains what you should know about bridge adjustments and repairs in this post below.
Examples of Dental Bridge Damage
Before answering “Can a tooth bridge be repaired?” you should know how bridges sustain damage.
Inadequate Oral Hygiene Practices
It’s vital to care for your teeth daily through brushing and flossing, even if you have a dental bridge. Poor oral hygiene can damage the bridge directly or impact the abutment teeth. If the latter rot, they can no longer keep the bridge in place.
Loosened Dental Cement
Although dental cement keeps bridges secure, it sometimes deteriorates prematurely. When that happens, the bridge’s stability and functionality are compromised. If loose cement is a problem, the dentist can reapply the adhesive and monitor it during routine dental appointments.
Chipped or Fractured Bridge
Oral trauma, excessive force when biting and chewing, and accidental hits to the face can fracture or chip bridges. The extent of the damage will affect the method the dentist uses for dental bridge repair.
Damage to Abutment Teeth
With bridges, dentists attach the artificial tooth on the bridge to the crowns that cover the natural teeth on either side of the gap. Unfortunately, dental decay or damage to the abutment teeth can reduce the stability and effectiveness of the dental bridge.
Dislodged Bridge
Loosened dental cement, changes to abutment teeth, damage to the bridge, and issues with the oral device’s fit can result in a dislodged tooth bridge. The damage could be minor or severe, which affects the bridge restoration method.
Methods for Repairing Dental Bridges
Can a tooth bridge be repaired? It’s certainly possible. Dentists may use one or more of the following restoration techniques, depending on the type and extent of the damage:
- Dental chip or fracture repair: A natural-looking composite resin or dental bonding can fill chipped or fractured teeth.
- Recementing the loose bridge: If loose cement is the issue, the dentist will clean the bridge, ensure it fits well, and then reapply the dental cement.
- Adjust the bite: A bridge adjustment may be necessary if wear and tear or changes in your bite affect your bridge’s ability to function correctly.
- Replace damaged components: Sometimes, artificial teeth or crowns sustain extensive damage, warranting replacement.
How To Avoid the Need for Dental Bridge Repair
Can a tooth bridge be repaired? It can, but preventing issues is the best course of action.
Schedule dental checkups every six months and follow a strict daily oral hygiene routine to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Don’t forget to floss at least once a day to reduce your risk of tooth decay.
Is Damaged Bridge Restoration a Dental Emergency?
You may wonder whether a damaged bridge is considered an emergency. It can be, depending on the reason for the damage and its extent. For instance, you should contact your emergency dentist if your bridge comes off completely, whereas a next-day dental appointment may suffice for a mildly loose bridge.
Contact Our Experts To Fix a Broken Dental Bridge
Can a tooth bridge be repaired? Unfortunately, dental bridges can sustain damage or loosen over time, requiring porcelain bridge repair or adjustment.
If you need a dental crown replacement or dental bridge repair, turn to Mark L. Civin, D.D.S., P.A. As an expert in restorative and cosmetic dentistry in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, our dental practice strives to help patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. To request an appointment, call (561) 624-2224.
