Dental bridges are an excellent solution for those who have lost a few teeth in their mouth. They can function similarly to your natural teeth, making it easier for you to enjoy many of your favorite foods. But if your dental bridge hurts or feels sensitive when you chew, it can be a sign of a problem with the underlying teeth or gums. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
How Does A Dental Bridge Work?
Among various tooth replacement options, one of the permanent solutions is a dental bridge. This restoration is ideal for those who have lost one or a few more consecutive teeth in an arch. As the name implies, a dental bridge uses support on both ends to replace the missing teeth.
To place a bridge, your dentist will trim a thin enamel layer of the teeth on both sides of the gap. These teeth act as anchors, providing stability to the restoration. In some cases, implants can also act as supporting units for a bridge. The replacement teeth are fully customized to match the color and size of your natural teeth.
Reasons Why Your Dental Bridge May Hurt
While a bridge is made to last several years, it may cause pain or other oral issues. If your dental bridge hurts when you chew, it could be due to one of these reasons:
- Tooth decay: Your healthy teeth supporting the bridge may become decayed if harmful bacteria sneak in. This can cause pain, especially when biting or chewing food.
- Foot getting stuck: Just like food gets trapped between your teeth, it can also get stuck near the bridge. If not cleaned properly, it can lead to gum irritation and discomfort.
- Ill-fitting bridge: If a dental bridge is not placed right or it does not fit perfectly over your teeth, you may experience pain when you bite or chew.
- Bite issues: In some cases, changes in the bite due to tooth loss or bone loss can also affect the fit of your dental bridge. It may feel more tight or become loose, causing discomfort.
What Can You Do About A Painful Dental Bridge?
If you experience dental bridge pain when you bite or chew food, the first step is to visit your dentist immediately. They will examine the bridge and its supporting teeth to detect the issue. Your dentist may also take digital X-rays to check if the teeth under the bridge have cavities or any infection.
If the issue is with the underlying teeth or gums, your dentist may remove the bridge to address the problem and bond it again afterward. However, if the problem is with the dental bridge itself, such as high spots or an improper fit, they may suggest replacing it with a new one.
Conclusion
It is not unusual to experience slight pain after getting a dental bridge, but if it hurts when you chew, it is best not to ignore it. Visit our dental experts at iCare4Smiles for effective treatment options. Call (732) 800-9524 to book an appointment today.