What to Do If Your Dental Bridge Falls Out  

In the United States, approximately 120 million individuals are missing at least one tooth, resulting in millions of people having gaps in their smiles. If you’re among them and have a dental bridge to address these gaps, it’s essential to know what to do in case your bridge becomes dislodged. This restoration typically consists of a dental crown positioned between two abutment teeth or implants to replace one or more consecutive missing teeth. To understand the potential causes and how to handle a situation where your dental bridge falls out, continue reading.

2 Common Reasons Dental Bridges Fall Out

While dental bridges can maintain their integrity for a span of 5 to 15 years with appropriate care, several factors may lead to their displacement, including:

• Irregular bite pattern – When a component of your dental bridge sits too high or too low on your chewing surface, it can create an uneven distribution of pressure. This imbalance can gradually loosen the bridge, and it may eventually come out.
• Tooth decay – The development of a cavity in one or both of the abutment teeth of your dental bridge can lead to its failure. This occurs when there is insufficient remaining tooth structure to support the bridge. Typically, this problem arises due to poor oral hygiene practices, such as infrequent brushing for two minutes twice a day and neglecting nightly flossing.

What to Do If Your Dental Bridge Fell Out

So, if your dental bridge happens to fall out, it’s crucial to stay composed and not panic. Take a deep breath, and then follow these steps:

• Contact your dentist – Contact your dentist and inform them of the situation. They will assist you in scheduling an emergency appointment. If the incident happens after regular business hours, consider checking their voicemail for instructions on the next steps to take.
• Place the bridge somewhere safe – Place the dislodged bridge in a plastic bag or storage case to ensure its safety. Bring it along to your dental appointment, where your dentist will assess whether it can be reattached. If not, they will discuss the option of creating a new one.
• Be careful when eating – To minimize sensitivity and discomfort, refrain from chewing on the side of your mouth where the crown was. Also, avoid consuming extremely hot, cold, acidic, spicy, sweet, or sharp foods and drinks.

A dental bridge falling out can be a concerning situation, but with prompt action and the assistance of your dentist, it can be resolved. By following their instructions and taking care of your bridge, you’ll soon be on your way to restoring your smile and oral health!

About the Practice

Explore a wide range of exceptional oral health services provided by the Center for Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry, under the leadership of Dr. David Crescenzo, Dr. Joseph Montalbano, and their proficient team. With access to state-of-the-art technology, their dedicated staff ensures top-tier care for all patients. Moreover, they are well-equipped to assist you in restoring your smile if your dental bridge becomes dislodged. To schedule an appointment with the Center for Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry or to gain further insights into dental bridges, please visit their website or contact them at (609) 561-0058.