My Dental Bridge Is Damaged, Can It Be Repaired?

A dental bridge is a special type of prosthetic. Not only can it help restore two damaged teeth, similar to a dental crown, but it can also replace 1 to 2 missing ones, all with one procedure.

Bridges provide long-term benefits to patients, but they’re not indestructible. They can chip, crack, break, fall out, and need replacing. If you’re not too excited about going through that process all over again, you might wonder if a dentist could fix your broken bridge. 

The short answer is that sometimes they can. Find the longer answer below.
‍

When Can a Dentist Fix a Dental Bridge? 

Whether or not a dentist can fix your bridge depends on the type of damage and the extent of it. There are usually two cases when a dentist can fix a bridge:

• Loose or fallen-out bridge: If you notice your bridge is moving or even fallen out, this could sometimes be caused by the cement dissolving. If the prosthetic is in good condition, a dentist can simply clean it and re-cement it over your natural teeth.

• Minor cracks or chips: In these cases, the dentist could use dental bonding to fix the shape and strengthen the bridge, or even drill it for small chips that create a sharper edge. 
  ‍

When Can a Dentist Not Fix a Dental Bridge?

The dentist will look at two things to determine if the bridge can be saved: the prosthetic itself and your two anchor teeth.

If the prosthetic is intact and only slightly damaged, the dentist may attempt one of the above measures to fix the problem.

But if the two anchor teeth are damaged, such as if they have cavities or are weaker, then you may need a new bridge, as the old one’s shape and size might not be appropriate anymore. In other cases, the anchor teeth may be so weak that they won’t be able to support even a new bridge.

A dentist will then recommend some alternative procedures to restore your smile, which can include crowns, implants, or even partial dentures. 
‍

How Long Should Dental Bridges Last?

A bridge can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on how well you care for it. Here are some things that can help you maintain your dental bridge:

• Have good daily oral hygiene habits
• Don’t chew on hard objects or foods
• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
• Don’t smoke
• Use non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Get routine dental cleanings every six months
  ‍

Dealing with a Damaged Bridge? We Can Help

If you’ve recently noticed your dental bridge is damaged, come see Dr. David Keeling for a short consultation to get it fixed or be fitted for an upgrade.

Request an appointment at DK Dental Care and stop by to discover your options. 

Have more questions? Call us at (414) 529-3253 for a chat!