How can you tell if a dental bridge is bad?
William Smith
Updated on April 04, 2026
7 Signs You Have a Bad Dental Bridge
- It’s Causing You Pain. If your dental bridge doesn’t fit correctly, it can cause a lot of discomfort in your mouth.
- Your Bite is Off.
- There is Noticeable Damage.
- Loose Fit.
- Speaking with a Lisp.
- It’s Stained or Discolored.
- It Looks Unnatural.
Why does my dental bridge feel uncomfortable?
A loose dental bridge is often accompanied by tooth and gum pain and sensitivity, especially if the loose bridge is caused by periodontal disease or issues with the abutment teeth. A loose tooth may also constantly touch the gums and surrounding teeth, which contributes to any pain and sensitivity.
Can a tooth get infected under a bridge?
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 often do dental bridges fail?
There is no certain amount of time in which a dental bridge should be replaced. If a dental bridge is properly cared for, including good oral hygiene and dental visits twice yearly, dental bridges can last many years. The lifespan of dental bridges tends to be from 7 to 15 years, but can also be 30 or more years.
How long should a dental bridge last?
How long do dental bridges last? Dental bridges can last at least five to seven years. With good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings, the bridge may last more than 10 years.
How do you know when your bridge needs to be replaced?
But because your natural teeth are covered, signs of decay aren’t visible. And so, sensitivity in the teeth or gums around a dental bridge could be a sign that your dental bridge needs repair. You might also notice or feel a crack in your tooth, or pieces of the porcelain may come off.
Can decay under a bridge be fixed?
Once decay starts at the margin of the bridge due to lack of proper dental hygiene, it then can progress under and inside of the crowns that make up the bridge. If the decay is detected and treated before it reaches the nerve of the tooth, the bridge may simply need to be replaced.
How long does a dental bridge last?
What is the lifespan of a dental bridge?
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last? 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.
How do I fix a dental bridge?
Replace the bridge using the dental repair kit. Place a small amount of the putty in each well in the bridge. Place the bridge in your mouth and press it down. Bring your teeth together and make sure that you have a normal bit. If you can not get a good fit, remove the bridge and wait until you can see your dentist.
How to fix dental bridge?
Over-the-counter dental cement can provide a temporary fix for the loss of bridge attachment. This cement will keep the bridge in place until you can see your dentist for a permanent fix. Call your dentist and make an emergency appointment to have your bridge reattached if it slips from your mouth.
How do you replace a dental bridge?
Fixed Bridge. A bridge may be used to replace a single tooth. A bridge consists of both a false tooth, called a pontic and the anchors (abutment crowns) that support the pontic. The entire structure spans the space vacated by the missing tooth. Neighboring tooth structure is removed shaping them to receive an anchor crown.
When should I replace my dental bridges?
Knowing when to replace a dental bridge depends on when the dental bridge becomes weakened or damaged from wear, or if an infection or decay develops around the dental bridge. There is no certain amount of time in which a dental bridge should be replaced.