My bridge has a gap, should I have it built in to prevent food getting stuck?

Question

My permanent bridge has a gap in front of the middle of the crown where the tooth was pulled,  Food gets stuck in gum.

Joseph H. Hidalgo, DDS · Answer

Hi, it sounds like you have had bone/gum shrinkage under your bridge. With food trapping it can and will eventually cause gum and possible decay on your anchor teeth. This puts your bridge at risk. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to repair this area without remaking the bridge. Sorry, don't shoot the messenger. Ways to clean it until you do replace the bridge are using Softpiks (very good) or proxybrushes. I use softpiks around my teeth and find them very helpful. Good luck!

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:Anytime there is a food trap with a bridge, there is potential for gum and bone damage.  It's best to address the issue as soon as possible.Best,Dr. Maddahi

Joseph B. Silberman, DMD, FAGD · Answer

Though I can't give you a definitive opinion on your bridge since I don't see it, in general, there should not be any spaces under a bridge where food can get trapped. It's an irritation to your gums and can lead to other tooth issues as well. If possible, it should be corrected.

My bridge has a gap, should I have it built in to prevent food getting stuck?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Bridge

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

My bridge has a gap, should I have it built in to prevent food getting stuck?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Bridge

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.