Life with a Dental Bridge: Maintenance, Longevity, and Care

Adjusting to life with a dental bridge can be a smooth and rewarding experience when you know how to care for it properly. Whether you’ve recently received a bridge or you're exploring your options for replacing missing teeth, understanding daily care habits and long-term expectations plays a big role in the success of your restoration. 

At Forest Lake Smiles, Dr. Jonathan Siverson and our compassionate team are committed to helping you protect your investment and keep your smile strong, functional, and beautiful for years to come.

What to Expect After Getting a Dental Bridge

When you first receive your dental bridge, you may experience a brief adjustment period. This is completely normal, as your mouth gets used to the new restoration. In most cases, patients adapt quickly and find their bridge both natural and comfortable. Here’s what you can generally expect right after placement:

• Improved chewing and speech: Your bridge restores function to your bite, making eating and speaking easier.
• Heightened sensitivity: You may notice temporary gum or tooth sensitivity around the support structure. This usually fades within a few days.
• Natural appearance: With custom shading and a secure fit, your dental bridge blends in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.

Every patient’s experience is different, and that’s why our Forest Lake Smiles team takes time to ensure each dental bridge fits comfortably and matches your individual needs.

Daily Maintenance for Dental Bridges

Maintaining your dental bridge involves a little extra attention compared to natural teeth, but nothing overwhelming. Building simple, consistent habits into your daily dental routine will help your bridge last longer and keep your surrounding teeth and gums healthy. Here are some essential maintenance tips to follow every day:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush: Use a fluoride toothpaste and pay extra attention to the area around the bridge.
• Floss underneath the bridge: Utilize a floss threader or water flosser to remove plaque under and around the bridge.
• Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash: This helps eliminate harmful bacteria, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

The team at Forest Lake Smiles is always happy to demonstrate proper cleaning techniques, especially for areas that require a bit more finesse when caring for your bridge.

How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?

With proper care, a high-quality dental bridge can typically last 10 to 15 years or even longer. The longevity often depends on your personal oral hygiene habits, diet, and regular dental checkups. 

At Forest Lake Smiles, Dr. Siverson focuses on durable restorations that fit beautifully and function reliably for the long term. You can extend the life of your bridge by:

• Visiting your dentist twice a year: Regular cleanings and exams help catch minor issues before they become major problems.
• Avoiding hard or sticky foods: Think twice before biting into things like ice, caramels, or tough nuts. These could compromise the bridge.
• Wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth: This added protection can shield the bridge from excessive pressure while you sleep.

At every biannual visit, Dr. Siverson performs a thorough evaluation of your bridge to ensure it's functioning properly and free of damage. This helps you feel confident in your smile every step of the way.

Signs Your Dental Bridge May Need Attention

Just like any dental restoration, bridges can occasionally experience wear, damage, or underlying issues with supporting teeth. Being proactive helps you avoid bigger concerns down the road. Watch for these common indicators it’s time to schedule a dental visit:

• Persistent discomfort or pain in the bridge area
• Looseness or shifting of the bridge when chewing
• Changes in bite alignment or speech
• Sensitivity in nearby teeth or gums

If you notice any of the above, reach out to Forest Lake Smiles as soon as possible. Dr. Siverson can assess the issue and recommend the appropriate solution to protect your oral health and comfort.

Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation in Forest Lake

You deserve a smile that looks great and functions flawlessly. If you’re living with a dental bridge or considering one for the first time, the caring team at Forest Lake Smiles in Forest Lake is here to guide you every step of the way. Call us at (651) 464-8207 or request an appointment to get personalized care from Dr. Jonathan Siverson in a warm, family-friendly environment where you’ll always feel at home.