Does Your Dental Bridge Need to Be Repaired?
Posted on 4/15/2025 by Dr. Michael Wockenfus |
 A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth (pontics) that are anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutment teeth) with crowns. Bridges are a popular option for restoring missing teeth because they offer several advantages over other options like dentures.
However, like any restoration, dental bridges can experience problems over time and may require repair. In this article, we will discuss some common signs that your dental bridge needs repair and what you can do about it.
Signs Your Bridge Needs Repair
There are several signs that your dental bridge may need repair. These include:
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Pain: This is the most obvious sign that something is wrong with your bridge. Pain can be caused by a number of factors, such as infection, inflammation, or a loose crown or pontic. |
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Sensitivity: If your bridge feels sensitive to hot or cold foods and beverages, this could be a sign that the underlying tooth is damaged or infected. |
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Loose Crowns or Pontics: A loose crown or pontic can be caused by a number of factors, such as decay, wear, or poor fit. If your crown or pontic is loose, it may fall out completely, which could lead to further damage to your teeth. |
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Chips or Cracks: Chips or cracks in your bridge can be caused by trauma, grinding your teeth, or using your teeth to open objects. If your bridge is chipped or cracked, it may need to be repaired or replaced. |
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Gum Recession: Gum recession can expose the roots of your abutment teeth, which can lead to sensitivity and discomfort. Gum recession can also cause the bridge to become loose. |
What to Do if Your Bridge Needs Repair
If you think your dental bridge needs repair, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will be able to examine your bridge and determine the cause of the problem. They will then recommend the best course of treatment, which may include:
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Repairing the bridge: If the damage to your bridge is minor, your dentist may be able to repair it. This may involve replacing a loose crown, filling a chip, or bonding a crack. |
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Replacing the bridge: If the damage to your bridge is severe, your dentist may recommend replacing it. This will involve removing the old bridge and placing a new one. |
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Treating the underlying tooth: If the problem with your bridge is caused by an underlying tooth problem, such as decay or infection, your dentist will need to treat the tooth before repairing or replacing the bridge. |
Taking Care of Your Dental Bridge
There are several things you can do to help take care of your dental bridge and prevent problems from occurring:
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Practice good oral hygiene: This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. |
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See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings: This will help your dentist monitor the health of your bridge and surrounding teeth. |
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Avoid biting on hard objects: This can damage your bridge and abutment teeth. |
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Don't use your teeth to open objects: This can also damage your bridge and abutment teeth. |
By following these tips, you can help keep your dental bridge in good condition and prevent the need for repair. However, if you do experience any of the signs listed above, be sure to see your dentist right away.
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