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June 26, 20256 Common Emergency Dental Issues for Seniors
June 26, 2025If you’re thinking about getting a dental bridge or already have one, you might wonder how long a dental bridge lasts. Dental work can be a big decision, and it’s normal to want to know what to expect. Dental bridges can replace missing teeth, and when it’s done right, it can help you chew, speak, and smile better. But just like anything else in your mouth, a bridge needs care. The better you take care of it, the longer it lasts.
Many people ask how long a dental bridge lasts. It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. Some bridges last for many years. Others may need replacing sooner if they get damaged or if the teeth around them change. Let’s check them out.
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ToggleHow Long is the Life Expectancy of Bridges?
Most dental bridges Phoenix last between 5 and 15 years. Some can even last over 20 years with great care. The type of material used and how well you take care of your teeth both make a big difference in how long a dental bridge lasts.
Type of Bridge or Material | Average Lifespan |
Porcelain fused to metal | 10 to 15 years |
All ceramic or zirconia | 15 to 20 years |
Full metal | 20 years or more |
Implant-supported | 25 to 30 years |
Maryland or resin-retained | 5 to 7 years |
The stronger the material, the longer the bridge can stay in place. But even strong materials can break if you chew hard things or don’t clean your teeth well.
Factors That Affect Dental Bridge Life Expectancy
A few important things can factor in how long a dental bridge lasts:
- If you brush and floss every day, your bridge will last longer
- The material used. Strong materials like zirconia last longer
- If the bridge is on your back teeth, it might wear out faster from chewing
- Grinding your teeth, especially at night, can damage the bridge
- If the teeth holding the bridge get cavities or gum disease, the bridge may fail
- Sticky or hard foods can break or loosen the bridge
- Regular dentist Phoenix, AZ visits help catch problems early before they get worse
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last on Front Teeth?
Your front teeth don’t take as much pressure as back teeth when you chew. Because of this, a dental bridge on the front teeth can sometimes last longer. See how long a dental bridge lasts on front teeth:
- Porcelain fused to metal: 10 to 15 years
- Zirconia or all-ceramic: 15 to 20 years
- Maryland bridge: 5 to 7 years
Front bridges also need to look more natural since they’re visible when you smile. That’s why they’re usually made of ceramic or porcelain, which look more like real teeth.
Is a Dental Bridge Permanent?
A dental bridge is made to stay in your mouth. You don’t take it out at night. It’s fixed in place, which is why some people call it permanent. But permanent doesn’t mean it lasts forever. Over time, things in your mouth change. Teeth shift. Gums pull back. Bridges can wear down. So, even though a bridge is not removed daily, it may still need to be replaced after many years. How long a dental bridge lasts is based on how well you take care of your teeth and your dental health.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Dental Bridge
There are some signs that show your bridge may need repair or replacement:
- You feel it getting loose
- You notice cracks, or it looks chipped
- Your gums around the bridge are sore or red
- Your bite feels different when you chew
- Your teeth near the bridge feel sensitive
- You see gaps between the bridge and your gums
How Often Do Dental Bridges Need to Be Replaced?
Some bridges last 10 to 15 years without problems. Others might need replacement sooner, especially if the teeth holding the bridge become weak or if the bridge breaks. How long a dental bridge lasts is based on a lot of what it’s made of, where it is in your mouth, and how you treat it.
You might need a new bridge if:
- You get cavities under the bridge
- Your bridge cracks or chips
- Your gums shrink and leave gaps
- The bridge becomes loose or wobbly
Visit your dentist in Phoenix often so they can check the bridge. If they see any problems, they can fix them before the whole bridge needs to be replaced.
Long-Lasting Dental Bridges in Phoenix, Arizona
If you want a dental bridge that lasts, it matters where you get it done. At Central Valley Dentistry in Phoenix, we use strong, top-quality materials. We also take our time to make sure the fit is perfect for your bite.
So, if you’ve lost a tooth and want a solution that looks natural and lasts for years, we’re here to help. Let’s talk about what kind of bridge is best for you and how to make it last. Contact us to schedule a visit.
FAQs
Can teeth decay under a bridge?
Yes. Decay can happen under the bridge if you don’t clean well.
What are the disadvantages of dental bridges?
They can wear out over time and need the nearby teeth to stay strong.
What happens when a dental bridge wears out?
It may feel loose, break, or cause pain. You’ll need a new one.