Dental bridges are applied to fill in missing teeth and restore your smile. They make eating and talking easier, and they also prevent your other teeth from shifting out of position. But, like any dental procedure, they can sometimes cause complications. Being aware of what to look out for can enable you to address problems at an early stage and prevent more severe issues down the line.

Lots of individuals begin looking for information online regarding dental bridge issues when something doesn’t feel right. It could be a pain, a feeling of discomfort, or a change in your bite, but issues can arise even after years with a bridge.

Loose or Shifting Bridge

One of the most recurring dental bridge complications is when the bridge becomes loose or shifts slightly when you chew. This can occur when the cement that secures it weakens or when the supporting teeth weaken. A loose bridge can allow bacteria in, which may cause decay or gum issues.

Your dentist might have to take out the bridge and examine the teeth below. If there is decay, it will have to be treated before the bridge is repaired or replaced.

Pain or Sensitivity

Some individuals develop pain or sensitivity when they have a bridge placed. Pressure on the supporting teeth is a possible cause, or perhaps the fit isn’t exactly correct. If, after a little while, the pain persists, it may be a sign of something more serious.

When individuals search for problems with dental bridges, pain is often what catches their eye. It shouldn’t be overlooked. A dentist can re-align the bridge or look for signs of decay or infection.

Food Getting Stuck

It’s not unheard of for food to become stuck under or beside a dental bridge. If this occurs often, it can cause gum inflammation or halitosis. It may also indicate that the bridge wasn’t fitted correctly, or the space underneath wasn’t properly shaped during therapy.

Employing special cleaning tools such as floss threaders or water flossers may be of assistance. However, if it persists, you might need to go back to your dentist for adjustment or a new one.

Chips or Cracks

Dental bridges are not invincible and can chip or crack, particularly when you bite hard foods. A crack may not be painful initially but increases in size over time and leads to further damage.

If a bridge becomes damaged, it will normally need to be repaired or replaced. Don’t use your bridge to bite on hard objects such as ice, and inform your dentist immediately if you feel a rough area or a change in shape.

Gum Problems Around the Bridge

Occasionally, the surrounding area of the bridge may become red, swollen, or bleed when you brush. These symptoms usually indicate gum disease. Insufficient cleaning around the bridge will enable plaque to accumulate and result in infection.

Brushing and flossing every day are important to maintaining healthy gums. It also prevents going to a dental clinic near you for regular checkups and cleanings. Early treatment can prevent gum issues from becoming larger issues.

Bite Feels Off

Once you get a dental bridge, the bite of some individuals feels different. This can occur if the bridge is high or misaligned. It can cause pain in the jaw, teeth grinding, or headaches.

Inform your dentist if you feel like your bite is off. A minor adjustment could be all that is required to correct the issue and maintain your mouth comfortable.

What Can You Do to Avoid These Problems?

Though certain problems may occur over time, there are measures you can take to maintain your dental bridge properly:

• Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft toothbrush
• Floss every day, even under the bridge
• Use a water flosser for those hard-to-clean areas
• Do not chew on hard foods such as ice or popcorn kernels
• Have regular checkups with your dentist

Caring for your bridge is the same as caring for your natural teeth. A small amount of effort every day can prevent you from having to repair or replace it in the future.

Need Help With Your Dental Bridge?

If you’re having any of these issues, don’t procrastinate. At Randolph Dental Smiles, our professional team is waiting to assist you in finding solutions and maintaining your healthy smile. We assist in every type of dental care, including dental bridges in Randolph. If your bridge is new or has been years in the making, we can help you maintain it for the long haul.