How Should a Dental Bridge Fit

How Should a Dental Bridge Fit?

TeamDental Bridges

If you suspect your dental bridge doesn’t fit right, it’s smart to contact a dentist. A dental bridge should fit snugly and securely in your mouth without causing pain, irritation, swelling, or discomfort.  Read on to learn more about how dental bridges should fit.

Dental Bridges Should Fit Firmly & Snugly Against Your Gum

A dental bridge should never feel wobbly. It should not shift when you eat, chew, or speak. When you first get a dental bridge, it may feel a bit tight in your mouth. If it continues to feel tight or uncomfortable after a couple of weeks, notify your dentist.

The artificial teeth (pontics) used to bridge the gap in your smile should also fit snugly against your gums. There should not be a gap between your gum and the pontic(s). If you notice a gap or discover food or debris accumulating near the base of the bridge, call your dentist.

A poor-fitting dental bridge puts your oral health at risk. For example, a bridge that doesn’t fit properly may damage the neighboring teeth, or the teeth that are supporting the bridge. A poorly fitting bridge also increases your risk of gum disease and gum recession. 

Signs Your Dental Bridge Needs to Be Adjusted

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an ill-fitting dental bridge, schedule an appointment with your dentist.

  • Sore Gums

If the gums beneath your dental bridge are sore, tender, or swollen, a loose bridge may be to blame.

  • Pain When Eating

If you experience pain when chewing with your dental bridge, notify your dentist. You may need to have your bridge reshaped or realigned. 

  • You Can Easily Move the Bridge

If you can move your bridge by touching it with your finger or tongue, or if it moves while you are eating, your bridge needs to be readjusted. Your bridge should always be firmly in place. 

  • Pressure on Adjacent Teeth

If the teeth adjacent to your bridge become sore, or you experience an ongoing sensation of tightness or pressure, schedule an exam with your dentist. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Bridges 

What should I do if my dental bridge comes loose?

Don’t panic if your dental bridge comes loose. Unless you’re in pain, a loose bridge isn’t an emergency. Schedule a dental appointment. However, if your bridge feels loose and you’re experiencing pain, contact your dentist and explain your symptoms, as pain should always be treated ASAP.

Get Help With a Loose Bridge in Aliso Viejo

If your dental bridge has come loose, your gums are sore, or something about your dental bridge just doesn’t feel right, contact the expert dentists at Aliso Smiles. Aliso Smiles is a Google Five-Star reviewed dental practice in Aliso Viejo. To book an appointment, call 949-916-7800 or message us