People who just had their dental bridges in Kennett Square often feel a sense of relief — finally, a complete smile and the ability to chew comfortably again.   

But what happens when that dental bridge unexpectedly falls out? It can be both surprising and stressful, especially if you’re not sure what caused it or what to do next.   

Here’s the good news, though: it’s actually a common issue, and it’s usually fixable. Let’s walk through what to expect and how to handle it if it happens to you. 

First Things First, Why Did It Fall Out? 

There are a few reasons a dental bridge might fall out. One of the most common is that the supporting teeth (abutments) underneath the bridge have weakened or decayed. Over time, if these teeth aren’t in good shape, they won’t be able to hold the bridge securely. 

Another reason could be old dental cement wearing down. Bridges are held in place with dental cement, and although it’s strong, it’s not invincible. Years of chewing, grinding, or even clenching your teeth can slowly loosen that hold. 

Lastly, poor oral hygiene or gum disease can also lead to bridges becoming unstable. If your gums or surrounding bone have receded, the bridge might not fit as snugly as it once did. 

It Fell Out, Now What? 

Don’t fret! Here’s what you should do instead:

1. Don’t Toss It!

As tempting as it might sound, keep the bridge. Even if it looks damaged, your dentist may be able to reattach it or use it as a temporary fix. Place it in a clean container and keep it safe until your appointment.

2. Call Your Dentist ASAP

This one’s a no-brainer. The sooner you call your dentist, the sooner you can get things fixed. Let them know what happened, and they’ll guide you on the next steps. 

3. Avoid Using That Side of Your Mouth

Chewing where the bridge used to be can cause irritation or damage to the exposed area. Try to stick to soft foods and use the opposite side of your mouth until you can get professional help.

4. Check for Discomfort or Pain

You might feel a bit sore or even notice some sensitivity, especially if the supporting teeth are exposed. Mild discomfort is normal, but if you’re in pain, it’s even more important to get seen quickly. 

Can You Put It Back In? 

In many cases, yes! If the bridge and the supporting teeth are still in good condition, your dentist might just need to clean it up and re-cement it.   

However, if the bridge is damaged or the abutment teeth are no longer strong enough, your dentist will discuss other options. This might include a new bridge, a crown, or even implants, depending on your specific situation.  

Preventing Future Bridge Failures 

The best way to avoid this situation in the future is to take great care of your oral health. Brushing, flossing (especially around the bridge), and regular dental checkups are key. Also, if you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about getting a night guard — it can make a big difference. 

Dental bridges in Kennett Square are meant to be long-term solutions, but like anything, they can run into trouble. Staying proactive and paying attention to any changes in how your bridge feels can help you catch issues early. 

Having Trouble with Your Dental Bridges in Kennett Square? We’ve Got You 

A dental bridge falling out can be unsettling, but it’s not the end of the world. Whether it’s due to wear and tear, weakened support teeth, or old cement, the important thing is to act fast and get it checked out. In many cases, the bridge can be re-cemented or replaced with ease.  

If you’re dealing with a dental bridge issue or just want to make sure it’s holding up, C Christian Franck Dental is here to help. Our team will assess the situation and get your smile back on track in no time.  

Book your appointment today and let’s take care of it together.