How long will a dental bridge last?

On average, a dental bridge lasts between 5 and 15 years. However, with excellent oral hygiene and regular dental care, it’s not uncommon for a bridge to last 20 years or more.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the longevity of a bridge depends largely on the materials used and the patient’s commitment to maintaining it. Porcelain fused to metal, all-ceramic, or zirconia bridges tend to offer strong durability and natural aesthetics.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. It literally “bridges” the gap left by missing teeth, restoring both appearance and function.

There are a few common types of dental bridges:

• Traditional Bridge: Anchored to crowns placed on the adjacent teeth.
• Cantilever Bridge: Used when there’s only one supporting tooth next to the gap.
• Maryland Bridge: Uses metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of nearby teeth.
• Implant-Supported Bridge: Secured by dental implants rather than natural teeth.

Bridges are custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, making them a popular and aesthetically pleasing option for tooth replacement.

Several key factors influence how long your dental bridge will last:

1. Oral Hygiene Habits

Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease or decay in the supporting teeth, weakening the foundation of your bridge. Daily brushing, flossing, and routine cleanings are essential.

2. Material Type

Stronger materials like zirconia or porcelain fused to metal generally last longer than all-resin options.

3. Location in the Mouth

Bridges in the back of the mouth (molars) experience more biting force, which may shorten their lifespan compared to those in the front.

4. Supporting Teeth Health

A bridge relies on surrounding teeth for support. If those teeth become decayed or damaged, the bridge can fail.

5. Diet & Habits

Chewing on ice, hard foods, or using your teeth to open packaging can damage your bridge. Bruxism (grinding or clenching) also puts excessive pressure on restorations.

Signs Your Dental Bridge May Need Replacing

It’s important to keep an eye on your bridge and surrounding teeth. Here are some signs your bridge may be failing:



• Pain, swelling, or sensitivity near the bridge
• Looseness or movement of the bridge
• Visible cracks, chips, or discoloration
• Gum recession around the bridge
• A persistent bad taste or odor (could indicate decay under the crowns)

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental visit right away to prevent further damage.

How to Make Your Dental Bridge Last Longer

You can take several steps to extend the life of your dental bridge:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Use a floss threader or water flosser to clean underneath the bridge
• Schedule regular dental checkups (every 6 months or as recommended)
• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth at night
• Avoid biting hard foods, chewing ice, or using your teeth as tools

At Mint Dental, we provide detailed aftercare instructions with every dental restoration to help you protect your investment and enjoy long-term results.

Restore Your Smile with Mint Dental

A dental bridge is a smart, long-term solution for replacing missing teeth—but it’s only as strong as the care behind it.

At Mint Dental, we design custom, durable bridges that look natural and stand the test of time. Whether you're considering a new bridge or need to replace an old one, our experienced team is here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation at one of our Kansas or Missouri locations.