Bridges made using modern technologies have a fairly long service life. However, after a while, they require correction or replacement. How do you behave if the bridge loses fixation and starts to stagger? How do you know when it's time to change crowns? Let us dwell on the moments of care and replacement of bridges and crowns, which will help maintain the result of prosthetics for a long time.
Why Сan a Dental Bridge Wobble?
The non-removable type design includes crowns mounted on abutment teeth and one or more artificial teeth between them. The prosthesis restores both the ability to chew and the appearance of a smile. The service life of the dental bridge depends on the characteristics of each clinical situation. The following factors matter:
- Hygiene
Brushing twice a day is a must. You should also floss your teeth and rinse your mouth thoroughly to prevent food debris from collecting under your dentures. It is worth using an irrigator – a device that has proven itself for hygiene at home. Professional cleaning in the dentist's office should be done twice a year.
- The quality of the supporting units
The teeth are prepared before prosthetics. They are ground, and if necessary, de-pulped. If the bridge staggers, this may indicate the development of secondary caries under the crown or partial destruction of the cement connecting the crown to the tooth tissues.
- Gum health
The condition of the tissues surrounding the abutment teeth affects the stability of the prosthetic structure. Swelling, redness, and bleeding gums indicates the development of the disease. Such symptoms require a visit to a specialist and treatment.
- Changes in the structure of the jaw
Over time, changes occur in the bone tissue. Bridges replace the visible portion of teeth that are missing roots. With all the advantages, the method cannot resist bone atrophy. The gums and the jaw gradually decrease in size. A prosthesis that no longer fits the gums and jaw loses its stability and requires relining.
If the bridge has become mobile, you should immediately contact a specialist. The doctor will be able to determine the causes and take adequate measures depending on each situation.
Treatment of abutment teeth, gums, strengthening of the structure, or its replacement is carried out according to individual indications. Timely contact with the dentist will help to solve problems in the early stages and extend the life of prosthetics.
When Is It Time to Change a Crown or Bridge?
Careful care and regular dental check-ups are essential to the long life of crowns and bridges. Due to individual characteristics, this period may be different for each patient. The main signs that indicate that the design needs to be replaced are the following:
- A toothache under a crown
Soreness can occur with pressure or have a constant, aching, pulsating character. It is possible to develop caries in the abutment tooth or nerve inflammation if it has not been removed.
- The gums are inflamed
The tissues that surround the abutment teeth and come into contact with the prosthesis can become inflamed and painful. It is possible to spread the infection and rub the gums with a prosthesis.
- Food remains to get stuck inside
The situation suggests that the bridge does not fit snugly, and a gap has appeared in which plaque accumulates. The cause may be gum recession, gingivitis, or periodontitis.
- There is a mobility of the structure
The crown or bridge has lost its fastening strength. Ignoring this process can lead to breakage of the prosthesis and loss of teeth.
- The contour of the face has changed
Patients notice that the lower jaw has protruded forward, and it also takes more effort to bite and chew food. This indicates that the prosthesis has ceased to perform its functions and needs to be replaced.
If one or more signs appear, you should contact your dentist to check the fixation of the prosthesis, the condition of the gums, and the teeth under the crowns. Timely replacement of the structure is a measure necessary to maintain the health of the supporting units and the entire dentoalveolar system.
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