While it’s normal enough for dentures to slip and fall, the same can’t be said for dental bridges. After all, the latter restorations are supposed to be fixed, permanent parts of your mouth. If one falls out, that means your prosthetic needs emergency repairs. Until you’re able to see your dentist, though, what should you do about the problem? Well, the answer is more straightforward than you’d think. Read on to learn what to do if your dental bridge fell out in New Orleans.
Why Do Bridges Fall Out?
For starters, it’d be helpful to know why your bridges might’ve fallen out in the first place. The answer could help inform your dentist’s treatment response. That said, here are three common causes of the issue:
Decay Around the Bridge
Often enough, bridges fall out due to tooth decay that forms either under or around them. Bacteria, acid, and food bits can stick near these restorations, resulting in germs that produce enamel-eroding acids. Left untreated, said acids can trigger cavities that prevent the bridge from staying in place.
Short, Weak, or Damaged Abutment Teeth
Abutment teeth sometimes weaken or break down after the bridge fitting. When that happens, they lack the fit necessary to stabilize your prosthetic. This weakening can occur for various reasons, including the decay mentioned above.
In other cases, your abutment teeth may not have the strength to hold the bridge long-term. Eventually, they can give out, causing a collapse that leads your bridge to fall.
An Improper Bite
Usually, your teeth meet in an efficient, aligned way when you chew. As a result, your bite doesn’t put undue stress on your teeth or jaw.
As it turns out, bridges depend on this alignment. When you have an improper bite, chewing and jaw-clenching create excess pressure on the sides of your jaw. In time, this can cause your bridge to loosen until it eventually falls out.
What Do I Do Until My Appointment?
First things first: Don’t panic. While it isn’t great that your bridge fell, such things can happen sometimes. Your dentist will likely be able to solve the problem.
Next, save your bridge for future repair or re-insertion. Try placing it in a Ziploc bag whose location you can easily remember. That way, it won’t get lost or misplaced while you wait for your appointment.
By remembering the causes and tips above, you’ll have a better chance of getting your bridge repaired. From there, you can go back to enjoying your fully restored smile!
About the Practice
Camenzuli Dental Excellence is based in New Orleans, LA. As led by Dr. Robert A. Camenzuli, the practice makes its patients’ comfort the highest priority. That being the case, the staff offers preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, as well as emergency dental treatments. Whether you need a checkup, veneers, dentures, or bridges, the Camenzuli Dental team has your back. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach them at their website or by phone at (504)-584-4225.