Losing a dental bridge can come as quite a surprise, especially if it’s while you’re in the middle of chewing! Though you’ll want to see your dentist as soon as possible if it happens, don’t panic! Here are the steps you should take if your dental bridge falls out, and what you can do before your appointment.
Call Your Dentist
If your dental bridge falls, out first remove it from your mouth. If it is in more than one piece, try to locate each one and set them aside. Next, rinse your mouth out with water a few times to ensure there are no small fragments left behind, and that the abutment teeth are clean.
Once your mouth is clear, call your dentist for further instructions and to make an urgent appointment.
If it is broken, rinse the pieces of the bridge that you were able to locate, and plan on bringing them with you to your upcoming dental visit.
Try to Reinsert Your Bridge
If your dental bridge is still in one piece and the abutment teeth are not broken, you can attempt to reinsert it. Never force it into place. If it does fit, you may be able to hold it on with a temporary dental cement. Please remember that this type of product is not meant to be permanent, so even if it does work, you’ll still need to see your dentist to have it reattached. This will also give your dentist the opportunity to make sure the abutment teeth are in good health and that the prosthetic does not have any damage that may not be visible to the untrained eye.
Until Your Appointment…
While you wait to be seen by your dentist, if you are unable to temporarily reattach your bridge, be very careful with what you eat. Avoid chewing on the side of the mouth with the exposed abutment teeth, and do not attempt to eat anything that is too hard, sticky, sweet, or acidic, as these can cause sensitivity or potentially damage them. Instead, eat soft foods. If your teeth are not injured, you can gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste and be sure to continue flossing around them as well.
Remember, though dental bridges are designed to last for ten or more years with proper care, they can sometimes come loose and fall out. If this happens, don’t panic. Simply follow the steps above, and your beautiful smile will be back in business in no time!
About Dr. Shroff
Dr. Roshan Shroff earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Integrative Biology from the University of University of Colorado Health Science Center, and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. He has also obtained advanced training in dental implantology, occlusion treatment, and Invisalign. Each year, he expands his knowledge by completing 50-100 hours of continuing education, which is two to three times the state requirement! To schedule an appointment for dental bridges with Dr. Shroff, please visit our website or call us at 303-632-3622.