How long does a fibre bridge last?
Nobody can promise a fibre bridge a set number of years, but the evidence so far is encouraging. A 2017 systematic review of 592 fibre-reinforced bridges estimated that 94.5% were still in place 4.8 years after they were fitted. The studies behind it were small and followed people for up to eight years, so the authors call fibre bridges a medium-term option and say their long-term performance is still unclear.
What that means for your bridge
A figure for a whole group can't tell you how long your own bridge will last, and much of that is in your hands: how you clean it, what you bite on and how often it is checked.
If you're still choosing, compare a fibre bridge with an implant and a denture, or read what a fibre bridge costs.
What usually goes wrong
Chipping is the one to know about. In the review, the composite on the surface of the bridge chipping or separating from the fibre underneath happened significantly more often than any other kind of failure. The bond to a support tooth can also let go, and if plaque is left to collect under the false tooth, the teeth that hold the bridge can develop decay or gum problems. Decay there may not hurt at first, which is one reason we check the support teeth and the gum under the false tooth at your check-ups.
What shortens a bridge's life
- Biting very hard things, such as ice, bones or pen tops, and using your teeth to open packets or bottles.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth, often at night and without knowing. Grinding wears and cracks natural teeth, and a bridge takes the same load, so if you grind, ask us about a night guard to wear while you sleep. Read more about teeth grinding and night guards.
- Skipping the daily clean under the false tooth.
- Smoking, and drinks such as coffee, tea and red wine, which can stain composite over time.
Looking after your fibre bridge
-
Step 1: Clean under it every day
Thread floss under the false tooth with a floss threader, or use a small interdental brush, to clear plaque and food from under the bridge.
-
Step 2: Brush twice a day
Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and brush the support teeth and along the gum line carefully.
-
Step 3: Keep your check-ups
We check the bond, the composite surface and the support teeth, and suggest how often to come in for your teeth and gums.
Signs your bridge needs a check
- A chip or rough edge you can feel with your tongue.
- The bridge feels loose or moves when you bite.
- Food packing under it more than before, or the gum around it bleeding.
- Sensitivity or pain in one of the support teeth.
Don't wait for your next check-up: call 031 563 2473 or send us a WhatsApp, and keep any piece that breaks off. Until the bridge has been checked, avoid biting hard on that side.
Your questions about how long a fibre bridge lasts
There is no set number of years. In a 2017 review, 94.5% of fibre bridges were still in place at 4.8 years, and how long yours lasts depends on the teeth that hold it, your bite and how well you look after it.
Bring it in. A small chip can often be repaired without replacing the whole bridge, and we tell you what can be done once we have seen it.
Possibly. Composite wears and can chip over time, and the support teeth can change, for example if decay starts around them. Check-ups catch these problems early, while they are still small.
Once a day, thread floss under the false tooth with a floss threader, or use a small interdental brush. Ask us to show you how.
Grinding puts extra load on composite, so tell us at your assessment. We may suggest a night guard to protect the bridge, or talk you through other options.
Book a check for your bridge
We confirm a time at Durban Dental Care, open Saturday mornings too.
Treatments that help a bridge last
Fibre bridge
Replace one missing tooth with a tooth-coloured bridge built in the chair and bonded to the teeth either side, without surgery.
Mouth guards and night guards
A thin night guard if you grind, or a sports guard for contact sport, made from a mould of your own teeth.
Teeth cleaning
Tartar and surface stains taken off, with your check-up at the same visit if it is due.
More about fibre bridges
Fibre bridge vs implant vs denture for one missing tooth
How a fibre bridge, an implant, a conventional bridge and a partial denture compare, and which suits your gap.
- Missing teeth
What a fibre bridge costs in South Africa
What goes into the cost of a fibre bridge, what else may be needed first, and how medical aid treats it.
- Missing teeth
Teeth grinding at night: signs, causes and night guards
How to tell if you grind your teeth at night, what causes it, what it does to teeth and how a night guard helps.
- Prevention
Ask about a fibre bridge
Book an assessment at Durban Dental Care, 490 Chris Hani Road, Durban North, and find out if a fibre bridge will work for your gap.
