Even though high-quality restorations like dental bridges are durable, they’re still at risk of falling out. If you ever find yourself in that situation, you may be surprised and unsure of what to do. Fortunately, your emergency dentist in Houston has you covered! Read on to learn a few possible reasons why your dental bridge might fall out, what you can do to manage the situation until your emergency appointment, and how your dentist can get your smile back on the right track.
Why Do Dental Bridges Fall Out?
There are numerous reasons why a dental bridge might fall out. Typically, though, it has to do with a special (and often unpredictable) circumstance. Here are some examples:
- Tooth Decay: If the teeth supporting or surrounding a bridge develop cavities and become decayed, a dental bridge will likely come loose or fall out. That’s why it’s incredibly important to clean your teeth thoroughly every single day!
- Improper Bite: An irregular bite changes how chewing pressure is distributed across your teeth. When this results in pressure points centered on a dental bridge, it can cause damage and structural weakness.
- Short, Weakened, or Damaged Abutment Teeth: A dental bridge has a crown on both ends that rest on top of your natural teeth. If these “abutment teeth” become compromised after the bridge is fitted, your restoration can fall out.
- Injury or physical impact: Just like how accidents can knock out your natural teeth, they can also dislodge a dental bridge.
What Should You Do If Your Dental Bridge Falls Out?
First things first – do not panic! Dentists aren’t strangers to this sort of dental emergency, which means they’ll know how to solve the problem. After taking care of any immediate first-aid needs, see if you can find your lost bridge. Your emergency dentist may be able to repair and recement it, so by keeping it secure in a Ziploc bag or clear container, you could spare yourself from needing a complete replacement. Just make sure you take your bridge with you to your appointment!
If you can’t visit your dentist right away, you should avoid chewing with the side of your mouth that had your bridge. That area will be more vulnerable than normal, and your tooth structure may not be able to withstand the chewing pressure. You can take over-the-counter pain medication and use a cold compress to ease any discomfort you may have.
How Your Emergency Dentist Can Help
The best treatment method for your smile will depend on the reason why your dental bridge fell out. If your abutment teeth or restoration are damaged, for example, they can likely be repaired or strengthened. However, you may need to explore your tooth-replacement options if your abutment teeth are too unstable or weak to continue supporting your bridge.
Did your dental bridge fall out? Contact your emergency dentist in Houston right away and ask what your next steps should be. They’ll be able to give you the best advice on what to do in this situation!
About the Practice
At Sunrise Dental Center, we’ve helped patients achieve optimal oral health for over three decades. Our team is passionate about providing quality service that’ll leave you smiling after every appointment. If your dental bridge fell out, give us a call right away. We’ll address the situation promptly and get your oral health back on the right track in no time! You can make an appointment via our website or call 713-869-9973.
