A JOURNEY FROM ETIOLOGY TO SOLUTIONS!!
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration/prosthesis used to replace one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth definitively to adjacent teeth or dental implants. This article explores the most common dental bridge problems, their causes, symptoms and possible solutions.
This prosthetic device basically bridges and fill the gap left by lost teeth. Their role is to enhance beauty and functionality, but they can potentially cause issues in the long run. These problems could be anything from minor discomfort to more significant ones that can need for more of dental care.
For any dental procedure to have a successful outcome, a multifaceted outlook is required.
Dentist must consider both technical and biological factors before fabricating any crown/bridge.
common problems with dental bridges are,
1. dental bridge problems pain & Discomfort
| Causes | Symptoms | Solutions |
| a) Poor Fit | Difficulty in chewing food | Adjustment by the Dentist |
| b) Tooth Sensitivity | Sensitivity to cold & hot in the teeth supporting the bridge | Desensitizing Treatment |
| c) Gum Irritation | Soreness in the gums | Improved oral Hygiene using floss & special brushes |
2. Decay or Damage to Supporting Teeth
| Causes | Symptoms | Solutions |
| a) Poor Fit | Food Lodgement between tooth & bridgeDiscoloration visible cavities on supporting teeth | Fabrication of new prosthesis if fit is beyond repair – Restoration of decayed teeth – Regular check-ups & cleaning to prevent build-up |
| b) Weakened teeth | Extensive alteration of adjacent teeth | Desensitizing Treatment |
3. Bridge Loosening or Falling Out
| Causes | Symptoms | Solutions |
| a) Worn out bonding Material | Feeling of loose or wobbly bridge – Noticeable gap between bridge & teeth | Re-cementation with new bonding material if bridge is in good condition – Fabrication of new prosthesis or implants if fit is beyond repair – Regular check-ups & cleaning to prevent build-up |
| b) Changes in oral Health | Gum Recession | Gum Building Followed by new prosthesis |
| c) Improper installation of bridge | Constant discomfort or pain while biting | Correct installation of bridge |
4. Aesthetic Issues
| Causes | Symptoms | Solutions |
| a) Colour mismatch | If old bridge, over the time due to wear & tear, colour changes, cracks appear.If new, shade mismatch is seen | Fabrication of new prosthesis if fit is beyond repair – Whitening of natural teeth. |
5. Gum Disease
| Causes | Symptoms | Solutions |
| a) Poor oral hygiene | Plaque build-upFood accumulation around bridge for a long termGap between bridge & gumsRed, swollen or bleeding gumsPersistent bad breathGum recessionPus discharge | Improved oral care – regular brushing, flossing, use of mouthwashes – Use of Special flossing tools – Professional cleaning |
6. Problems with Bite Alignment
| Causes | Symptoms | Solutions |
| a) Improper Placement | Discomfort on biting or chewing | Re-cementation with new bonding material if installation – Fabrication of new prosthesis or implants if fit is beyond repair |
| b) Changes in Bite | Shifting of jaw due bite changes in long run | Adjustment by dentist |
Conclusion
Is there anything in the world exclusively with benefits? NO!
There are benefits and drawbacks to every single thing in the world!
Similar is with the dental restorations.
Both the dentist’s & patient’s side have both issues & answers.
Though we can significantly improve one’s appearance, functionality & overall health, we have deal with the issues ranging from discomfort and damage to the supporting teeth to problems with gum disease or cosmetics.
Frequent dentist visits, good oral hygiene maintenance can reduce the likelihood of problems and guarantee that your bridge will continue to work as intended for many years to come.
If you have any dental bridge problems, it’s critical to see your dentist right away to resolve the issue and prevent further complications.
About Author
Dr. Chandni
B.D.S and M.D.S graduate
