Common Concerns After Getting a Dental Bridge: What You Need to Know - Dentistry

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After getting a dental bridge, it's common to have various concerns and questions regarding its functionality and the overall health of your mouth. Let's address some of the issues you've raised, as well as provide some additional insights into what you might expect after the procedure.

Firstly, the sensation of air and water sounds when you press your tongue against the bridge is not uncommon. This can occur due to the design of the bridge and the way it interacts with your oral cavity. If the bridge feels secure when you manually test it, that’s a good sign. However, if you consistently feel that it moves or if there are any unusual sensations, it’s essential to communicate this with your dentist. They may want to check the fit and ensure that there are no gaps that could lead to food trapping or other complications.

Regarding the discomfort between your wisdom teeth and molars, this is a significant concern. If food particles are consistently getting stuck in that area, it can lead to gum irritation and inflammation, which might explain the swelling and pain you're experiencing. Your dentist's recommendation to remove the wisdom tooth is a common solution, especially if it's impacted or not properly aligned. Removing the wisdom tooth can help alleviate the pressure and improve cleaning access to the surrounding teeth, ultimately promoting better oral health.

The fact that your bridge was immediately cemented without a trial fitting can be a point of concern. While many dentists do proceed directly to cementing a bridge, especially if they are confident in the fit, it's always best practice to have a trial period. This allows for adjustments to be made before the final cementation. If you feel that the bridge is causing discomfort or if the surrounding gums are reacting negatively (like the "meat strip" you mentioned), it may be worth discussing with your dentist the possibility of remaking the bridge or making adjustments to ensure it fits properly and does not cause harm to your gums or adjacent teeth.

The presence of a "meat strip" or excess gum tissue around the bridge can indicate that the bridge is putting undue pressure on the gums, which can lead to further complications, including periodontal disease. If left unaddressed, this could potentially affect the health of the neighboring teeth, leading to issues such as gum recession or bone loss.

In terms of whether the bridge needs to be redone, this depends on several factors. If the bridge is causing significant discomfort, if it is not fitting well, or if it is leading to other dental issues, it may be necessary to consider remaking it. Your dentist should conduct a thorough examination, possibly including X-rays, to assess the health of the underlying teeth and gums before making a recommendation.

In conclusion, it’s crucial to maintain open communication with your dentist about any discomfort or concerns you have after getting a dental bridge. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the fit and function of the bridge and to ensure that your overall oral health is not compromised. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion from another dental professional can provide additional insights and options for your dental care. Remember, your comfort and health should always be the priority in any dental treatment.