A dental bridge, like any oral restoration, can sometimes become loose or fall out. When this happens, it can be alarming, especially if it occurs unexpectedly while eating or away from home. Whether your bridge has just fallen out or you’re learning in advance, here’s more on how you can protect your teeth until you can see an emergency dentist.
Stay Calm and Find the Bridge
The first step is to stay calm and locate the dental bridge. If you find it, gently rinse it with water to remove any food or debris. Avoid scrubbing it aggressively or using household cleaners, as you don’t want to damage the restoration.
Keep the bridge in a clean, safe container and bring it with you to your dental appointment. Depending on its condition and the reason it came loose, your dentist may be able to reattach it.
Don’t Try to Glue It Back
It may be tempting to use household glue or another adhesive to put your bridge back in place. Don’t do this. These products are not designed for use in your mouth and could damage the bridge, irritate your gums, or make it more difficult for your dentist to properly repair or replace the restoration.
If the bridge is still partially attached, don’t pull or force it off. An emergency dentist can determine the safest way to handle it.
Protect Your Teeth
A missing bridge can leave the teeth underneath or next to the restoration more vulnerable. Depending on the location of the bridge, you may also notice difficulty chewing or changes in your bite.
Until you can see a dentist, avoid chewing on the affected side. Stick with softer foods and avoid particularly hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that could further damage the exposed teeth or surrounding tissues.
Continue brushing and flossing gently but take care around the area where the bridge was located.
Contact an Emergency Dentist
A dental bridge falling out isn’t always a life-threatening emergency, but it does warrant prompt dental attention. Contact an emergency dentist as soon as possible, particularly if you are experiencing significant pain, sensitivity, swelling, bleeding, or damage to one of the supporting teeth.
Your dentist will examine the area to determine why the bridge came loose. Possible causes can include decay beneath the restoration, damage to a supporting tooth, gum problems, normal wear, or an issue with the bridge itself.
What Happens at Your Appointment?
Your dentist will evaluate your teeth, gums, bite, and bridge. If the restoration is intact and the supporting teeth are healthy, it may be possible to recement it. However, if the bridge or supporting teeth are damaged, you may need a repair, replacement, or another treatment.
A fallen dental bridge can be inconvenient or downright frightening, but acting quickly can help prevent additional problems. Save the bridge, protect the affected area, avoid DIY repairs, and contact an emergency dentist.
About the Practice
Dr. Austin Barker is a graduate of the University of Utah School of Dentistry. He regularly pursues ongoing education and is a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. If you’re in need of an emergency dentist, Dr. Barker and his team are here for you with same-day and walk-in appointments available. Call the Murfreesboro office at (615) 900-5704 or reach them online.