Dental bridges are prosthetics designed to replace missing permanent teeth for up to ten years, but how long they last depends on a variety of factors. If yours accidentally comes loose or falls out, it may be possible to reattach it, but if it has been damaged it may need to be replaced. Here’s what you should do if your bridge comes out, and how to care for it in the future.
Step One: Contact Your Dentist
If you lose your dental bridge, your first step should always be to contact your dentist for further instructions. You will need to be seen for an emergency appointment, but depending on the circumstances, you may not need to go in immediately. Your dentist can assess the situation when you call and recommend a good time for you to come in for help.
Step Two: Keep Your Bridge
Even if your bridge is broken into multiple pieces, bring all parts with you to your emergency dental appointment, as your dentist may be able to reattach them. There is of course a chance you will need a new bridge created, but this will be determined by your dentist at your exam.
Step Three: Try Reattaching Your Bridge
If it is still whole, you may be able to temporarily reattach your bridge until your dental appointment. To do this, first brush your teeth well. Then, clean the bridge with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. If the abutment teeth are still in good condition, you can attempt to place the bridge back in your mouth (don’t force it) and see if it stays in place.
Step Four: Secure Your Bridge
If approved by your dentist, you can sometimes reattach your bridge with temporary dental cement available at most pharmacies, but do not attempt this without dentist supervision. Please note that these products were not designed to keep your prosthetic in place for long, so don’t rely on them as a permanent solution if your bridge falls out. Your dentist can reattach it properly so there is less risk of it falling out again or of the abutment teeth becoming decayed or infected.
Step Five: Maintaining Your Bridge
Once your bridge has been replaced or reattached, don’t forget to stay on top of your regular oral health and hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist twice a year for your regular, biannual exam and cleaning appointments. These are your dentist’s opportunity to make sure your bridge is secure and in good condition, your teeth (both real and prosthetic) are strong, and your gums are in good health, too.
Remember, accidents happen and losing a bridge is no reason to panic. If you do, keep calm, follow the steps above, and soon your smile will be looking and feeling great once again!
About Dr. Yue
Dr. Lina Yue earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Studio Arts minor from the University of Pittsburgh and Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD degree) with Magna Cum Laude honors from Temple University Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry. Dr Yue loves helping her patients smile and believes that “People who love to smile will not have bad luck.”
If you need help with your dental bridge, or for any other dental care, please schedule an appointment with Androscoggin Dental Care by visiting our website or calling 207-729-3911.