Why Is My Dental Bridge Digging Into My Gums?

Common Reasons Your Dental Bridge Is Hurting Your Gums

If your dental bridge is causing gum pain, you’re not alone. Many patients come to us at Bright Horizons at Boca Raton complaining about discomfort with their bridges, especially that digging, sore feeling that just won’t go away. And while dental bridges are meant to restore your smile, they shouldn’t cause pain.

Let’s discuss why this might be happening, what it means, and how to address it before it becomes a more significant issue.

What Is a Dental Bridge and What Should It Feel Like?

A dental bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth. It’s anchored in place either by crowns on neighboring teeth or by dental implants. Bridges can be fixed (permanent) or removable, though most modern patients prefer fixed ones for ease and comfort.

When done right, a dental bridge should feel natural. No poking, no sore spots. You should be able to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.

If your bridge feels like it’s digging into your gums, that’s a red flag and your mouth is trying to tell you something.

Common Reasons Your Dental Bridge Is Hurting Your Gums

1. It Doesn’t Fit Properly

Sometimes, bridges don’t fit as they should. Maybe the impression taken wasn’t perfect, or your mouth has changed since the bridge was placed. When this happens, the bridge may shift slightly when you bite, causing pressure and irritation on your gums.

2. The Edges Go Too Deep

If the edge of the bridge extends too far into the gumline, it can feel like it’s cutting or digging in, especially while eating. This can happen due to natural gum recession or improper placement.

3. Gum Recession or Bone Loss

Over time, your gums and bones can shrink or recede. This causes a once-perfect bridge to become unbalanced. When that happens, it no longer sits flush, leading to tenderness and gaps where food or bacteria can collect.

4. Infection Under the Bridge

If food or bacteria get trapped under the bridge, your gums may become inflamed. You may notice swelling, redness, bleeding, or even a bad taste in your mouth. This is a sign of infection, and it’s serious. If left untreated, it could damage the surrounding teeth or gum tissue.

5. Bite Alignment Issues

If your bridge is slightly too high or out of alignment, it can throw off your bite. That added pressure lands on your gums and causes pain. Worse, over time, it can lead to jaw discomfort or damage to nearby teeth.

Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to call your dentist:

• Constant or worsening pain around your bridge
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• A loose or rocking sensation in the bridge
• A bad taste or odor in the area
• Visible gaps or exposed tooth structure

These are all signs that something’s wrong, and it won’t fix itself.

What to Do If Your Bridge Is Causing Pain

1. Schedule a Dental Checkup in Boca Raton

If you’re dealing with pain, don’t wait. At Bright Horizons in Boca Raton, we can evaluate the fit of your bridge and identify the cause of the issue. Sometimes it’s a quick fix. Other times, the bridge may need to be replaced, but either way, we’ll help you find relief.

2. Possible Treatments Include:

• Bridge adjustment or re-cementing
• Deep cleaning to remove trapped bacteria
• Replacement if the structure is compromised
• Bite correction to redistribute pressure evenly

How to Prevent Future Bridge Discomfort

Even the best dental work needs maintenance. Here’s how to avoid issues down the road:

1. Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

Bridges require special care. Use floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean underneath the bridge. Pair that with a gentle anti-bacterial mouthwash to keep gum inflammation at bay.

Need help with hygiene? Ask us about teeth cleaning in Boca Raton, and our team will make sure your bridge area stays spotless.

2. Keep Up with Routine Dental Visits

Prevention is key. At Bright Horizons in Boca Raton, we closely monitor your bridge and gum health at every visit. Early signs of gum changes or bite issues are easier (and cheaper) to fix when caught early.

Let’s Fix That Bridge Pain For Good

Your dental bridge should never hurt. If it does, your body’s telling you something’s off—and it’s time to listen. Whether you need an adjustment, a full replacement, or just a checkup, we’re here to help.

At Bright Horizons Dental, we specialize in advanced restorative dentistry in Boca Raton with a gentle touch. Don’t let pain linger. Schedule your visit today and let’s bring comfort back to your smile.