Losing a dental bridge can be a distressing experience, leaving you with discomfort and impacting your confidence. Many people turn to denture adhesives like Fixodent to provide temporary support. But how long can you really rely on Fixodent to hold a bridge in place? Let's dive into the specifics.
Understanding the Limitations of Fixodent for Bridges
While Fixodent is effective for securing dentures, its suitability for bridges is a different matter. It's crucial to understand that Fixodent is not designed for long-term bridge retention. It's meant for temporary support, and its effectiveness varies depending on several factors.
Factors Affecting Fixodent's Hold on a Bridge
- Bridge Condition: A poorly fitting or damaged bridge will not adhere well to Fixodent, regardless of the adhesive's quality.
- Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can significantly reduce the effectiveness of any adhesive. Food particles and plaque can interfere with the bond.
- Saliva Production: Excessive saliva production can weaken the bond between the bridge and the adhesive.
- Type of Fixodent: Different Fixodent formulations have varying strengths. Choose a product specifically designed for strong hold, if absolutely necessary.
- Amount of Adhesive Used: Applying too little or too much adhesive will negatively impact its performance. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
How Long Can You Expect Fixodent to Hold a Bridge?
The truth is, there's no definitive answer to how long Fixodent will hold a bridge. It's highly unlikely to hold a bridge securely for more than a few hours, and possibly less. You might find it stays in place for a meal, but prolonged use is not recommended. It could even dislodge unexpectedly.
What to Do If Your Bridge Comes Loose
If your bridge becomes loose, resist the urge to repeatedly apply Fixodent. This is a temporary solution only. Instead, contact your dentist immediately. A loose bridge could indicate a serious underlying problem requiring professional attention. Ignoring the issue could lead to further complications and more extensive, costly dental work in the future.
Why Repeated Fixodent Use Isn't Ideal
Repeated use of Fixodent on a loose bridge can lead to:
- Increased risk of infection: Trapped food particles and bacteria can cause gum inflammation and infection.
- Gum irritation: The adhesive can irritate the gums over time, causing discomfort and potential damage.
- Bridge damage: Forcing a loose bridge into place with adhesive might damage the bridge further.
Seeking Professional Help is Crucial
Your dentist will be able to properly assess the situation and determine the best course of action. They might re-cement the bridge, recommend a new bridge, or explore other options depending on your individual circumstances.
Remember: Using Fixodent as a long-term solution for a loose bridge is not advisable. Seeking professional dental care is the most reliable way to ensure the stability and longevity of your dental bridge and overall oral health.
