A broken dental bridge can be both painful and alarming. Whether it happens while eating, brushing, or due to trauma, dental bridge breakage requires quick and careful action. Although bridges are designed to be durable and long-lasting, theyre not indestructiblewear, poor oral hygiene, or sudden impact can compromise their structure.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we treat dental bridge emergencies with urgency and precision. In this guide, we share what to do if your dental bridge breaks, how to manage discomfort, and when to seek emergency dental care. Acting fast protects your oral health, prevents infection, and preserves your smile.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent natural teeth or implants. There are several types:
Traditional bridges: Crown-supported on both sides
Cantilever bridges: Supported on one side only
Maryland bridges: Bonded using a metal or ceramic framework
Implant-supported bridges: Attached to dental implants
Bridges are strong, but over time, factors like decay under the supporting teeth, cement failure, or trauma can lead to damage or total breakage.
Causes of Dental Bridge Breakage
Understanding the cause can help you prevent future incidents. Common reasons include:
Biting into hard foods (ice, nuts, bones)
Accidents or facial trauma
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Decay or infection under the supporting crown
Aging of materials used in older bridges
Poor oral hygiene or gum disease
If you suspect your bridge is weakening or feel movement when eating or brushing, its best to get it checked before a full break occurs.
Immediate Steps to Take If Your Bridge Breaks
A dental bridge breakage may not always be painful, but it leaves your teeth and gums vulnerable to further damage or infection. Heres what you should do immediately:
1. Remove the Broken Bridge (If Detached)
If the bridge is completely dislodged and loose in your mouth:
Gently remove it to avoid swallowing or choking
Rinse it under lukewarm water to clean debris
Store it safely in a clean container or bag
Do not attempt to re-cement or glue it back yourself. Over-the-counter adhesives or household glue can be toxic and cause more damage.
2. Rinse Your Mouth
Use warm saltwater to rinse your mouth. This helps clean the exposed area and soothe irritation if the underlying tooth structure is sensitive or bleeding.
3. Manage Pain or Sensitivity
If the abutment teeth or gums are exposed:
Take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods that can trigger sensitivity
Chew on the opposite side of the mouth
If the underlying tooth has decayed or fractured, you may experience sharp or shooting pain. This requires urgent evaluation by your dentist.
4. Inspect for Damage
Gently examine the bridge. Is it cracked, chipped, or fully broken into parts? Is there visible damage to the natural teeth or gums? Any bleeding, swelling, or pus is a sign of infection and must be addressed immediately.
Avoid further manipulationrepeated handling or biting down on the damaged area can worsen the condition.
5. Contact McLevin Dental Clinic Immediately
A broken dental bridge is a true dental emergency, even if pain isnt severe. Call McLevin Dental Clinic right away to schedule a same-day appointment. Early intervention can often mean the difference between saving or replacing the bridge.
What Not to Do After a Bridge Breaks
Do not ignore it Exposed teeth under a broken bridge can quickly develop decay or infection.
Do not eat sticky or hard foods These can worsen damage or lead to further injury.
Do not use DIY repair kits Theyre not designed for fixed dental appliances and may trap bacteria.
Do not continue using a loose or mobile bridge Movement causes wear on adjacent teeth and tissues.
Treatment Options for a Broken Dental Bridge
The solution will depend on the type and extent of damage. At McLevin Dental Clinic, your dentist will assess whether repair or replacement is needed.
1. Recementing the Bridge
If the bridge is intact and the underlying teeth are healthy, it may be possible to recement the original bridge.
2. Repairing a Minor Fracture
Small chips or cracks in porcelain may be repaired with dental bonding or composite resin.
3. Full Replacement
If the bridge is fractured beyond repair or if decay is present under the crown, a new bridge may be required. In cases of severe damage, implant-supported restorations may be discussed as a long-term solution.
4. Addressing Underlying Issues
If tooth decay, gum disease, or bite misalignment contributed to the breakage, these must be treated before replacing the bridge to ensure long-term success.
How to Prevent Future Bridge Damage
Prevention is key to prolonging the life of your new or repaired bridge. Follow these steps:
Avoid chewing hard objects like ice, pens, or bones
Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth while sleeping
Brush and floss dailyespecially around the bridge
Use special flossers or water flossers to clean under the pontic
Schedule regular checkups every 6 months for professional cleaning and monitoring
Avoid using your teeth as tools (e.g., to open packages)
Bridges, like natural teeth, need consistent care to stay functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Final Thoughts
A broken dental bridge can feel like a major setback, but knowing what to do in the first moments makes all the difference. Acting quickly, avoiding further damage, and getting professional treatment right away ensures your smile stays protected and functional.