What is the failure rate of dental bridges?

Dental bridges are a time-tested solution for individuals missing one or more teeth in a row. They serve not only as a cosmetic enhancement, restoring the natural look of your smile, but also as a functional replacement, enabling you to chew and speak normally.

The need for a dental bridge typically arises when a person has lost one or more teeth due to decay, gum disease, injury, or other oral health issues. Missing teeth can lead to a range of complications, including shifting of the remaining teeth, changes in facial structure, difficulties in eating and speaking, and self-esteem issues related to appearance. A dental bridge can help mitigate these problems by filling the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth with artificial ones that are anchored to the adjacent natural teeth or implants.

In short, if you’re missing one or more teeth and are looking for a durable, long-lasting solution that will improve both the aesthetic and functional aspects of your smile, a dental bridge may be an excellent choice.

Do dental bridges have a failure rate?

The longevity of dental bridges is subject to variation based on numerous factors. According to a 2015 Journal of Oral Rehabilitation study, traditional fixed dental bridges showcased a survival rate of roughly 72.6% post 15 years, implying a possible failure rate of 27.4%. It’s crucial to remember these figures represent broad averages, and individual results can vary significantly.

Several key elements can contribute to the success or failure of a dental bridge:

• Materials Used: The quality and type of materials can influence the durability and lifespan of the bridge.
• Patient’s Oral Hygiene: Consistent and effective oral hygiene practices can greatly extend the lifespan of a dental bridge.
• Health of the Supporting Teeth: The health and stability of the teeth supporting the bridge are crucial for its success.
• Skill of the Dental Professional: The experience and skill of the professional fitting the bridge can have a major impact on the success rate.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: These allow for early detection and treatment of any potential issues.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Habits like a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco can enhance oral health overall and the longevity of the dental bridge.

Factors like decay in the supporting teeth, damage from trauma or heavy biting forces, gum disease around the supporting teeth, and an improper fit can cause a dental bridge to fail.

It’s essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits of dental bridges with your dentist to make the most informed decision for your unique oral health situation.

The lifespan of dental bridges comparing with All-on-4 and All-on-6

The lifespan of dental restorations like dental bridges, All-on-4, or All-on-6 depends on various factors, such as the patient’s oral hygiene, overall health, diet, and the quality of the procedure and the materials used.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges can last, on average, between 10 to 15 years, and even longer with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. However, they depend on the health of the surrounding teeth, and problems in these teeth can cause the bridge to fail.

All-on-4 and All-on-6

These are types of dental implant-supported bridges. They do not rely on existing teeth for support. Instead, they use a series of strategically placed implants. Because of this, they often have a longer lifespan. Studies suggest that All-on-4 implants have a success rate of up to 98% after 10 years. All-on-6, while less studied due to its relatively recent introduction, is expected to have similar longevity given it follows the same concept as All-on-4 but with two additional implants for added support.

It’s important to note that while All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants may last longer, they are also more invasive procedures and may not be suitable for all patients. The choice between dental bridges and implant-supported bridges should be based on a thorough discussion with your dentist about your specific needs, overall health, and personal preferences.