Can a dental bridge cause infection?
The good news: dental bridges cannot become infected. The bad news: the natural teeth underneath the crowns of a dental bridge are still vulnerable to tooth decay and other oral health issues. Tiny bits of food can get stuck in between teeth and a poorly fitted dental bridge, leading to tooth decay.
How do I know if my dental bridge is infected?
Signs of infection after getting a traditional dental bridge include severe pain, toothache, redness, or swelling in the mouth. Other signs of infection include swelling and pain in the jaw, swollen glands in the jaw or neck, fever, and feeling ill. If you have any signs of infection, call your dentist right away.
Can you have an abscess under a bridge?
If the decay is detected and treated before it reaches the nerve of the tooth, the bridge may simply need to be replaced. However, if the decay reaches the nerve, then the tooth can become infected and an abscess can develop.
How do you treat a gum infection under a bridge?
Floss underneath your dental bridge and between your teeth at least once a day to remove bacteria and trapped food particles. Rinse with an ADA-approved mouthwash to flush out anything left behind that flossing and brushing missed.
What can go wrong with a dental bridge?
Ill-fitted bridges lead to discomfort but that is just the start. With time, the false tooth can lead to irritation in your gums potentially causing boils, infection, and gum recession around the bridge. You should go see your dentist at the slightest bit of irritation or issue relating to how the bridge fits.
How long does it take for dental bridge to settle?
Adjusting to your dental bridge Most patients take about two weeks to adjust fully. During this time, avoid very hot or very cold foods. Also, using toothpaste for sensitive teeth for the first few days will help with pain and discomfort.
Can a cemented dental bridge be removed?
Loose bridges can often be easily removed and repaired, allowing your dentist to recement the bridge into place. However, the cement used to bond a bridge in place is designed to last for many years and it is not always possible to remove a bridge without causing damage to the support of surrounding teeth.
How long does it take for gums to heal after bridge?
Ward usually wants the gums to heal properly before he fits a dental bridge for his patients. It may take 8 –12 weeks for the full healing process to be completed.
How do you clean under a bridge?
As the bridges are joined, a floss cannot pass through between the teeth units within the bridge from the top (occlusal surface). Thus, you can’t floss between the bridge using regular floss. It’s best to continue to clean under the bridge with a super floss, a floss threader or an interdental brush.
How long dental bridge lasts?
Dental bridges can last five to 15 years and even longer. With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, it is not unusual for the life span of a fixed bridge to be over 10 years.
Is it hard to keep a dental bridge clean?
Since a dental bridge is permanent, you cannot remove it to clean it. Choose an easy-to-use aid such as a floss threader, super floss, interdental brush or water pick for your dental bridge. You can discuss the options with your dentist, and ask them to show you how to use it on your bridge.