If you have ever had a dental bridge, you know it is an essential solution for replacing missing teeth. It helps with chewing, speech, and the overall appearance of your smile. However, when a dental bridge fails, it can cause significant pain and discomfort, leading to further dental problems. In some cases, the failure of a long bridge could be due to malpractice by your dentist. If you are dealing with a long bridge failure, you must immediately seek help from a dental malpractice lawyer in New York.
Our team at Dental and Podiatry Malpractice of New York understands how difficult it can be to deal with a long bridge failure. For this reason, we fight to protect the rights of those affected and demand maximum compensation.
What Is a Long Bridge?
A “long bridge” is a dental bridge covering a larger gap between teeth. This usually includes areas with more than two or three missing teeth. While it sounds like a convenient solution, longer bridges tend to come with more challenges. They are harder to place correctly, require more precision, and put additional pressure on the supporting teeth. A long bridge can fail if not done right, causing various complications.
Although these dental bridges can last for several years or even up to a decade with proper care, sometimes they fail prematurely. These can be a result of errors made during the procedure.
What Causes a Long Bridge to Fail?
There are several reasons why a long bridge might fail. Some are related to the patient’s oral hygiene, while others are caused by mistakes made during the dental procedure. Common causes of long bridge failure include:
Poor Fit
It is crucial to achieve the proper fit with a dental bridge. A loose bridge can trap food and bacteria, leading to decay or infection, while a tight bridge may exert pressure on surrounding teeth, risking damage. Careful measurements by the dentist are essential for a perfect fit.
Weak Supporting Teeth
Abutment teeth, which support a dental bridge, must be strong and healthy to prevent failure. If a dentist uses weak or decayed teeth for support without proper assessment, it can lead to early bridge failure.
Improper Bite Alignment
Your bite is how your upper and lower teeth align when your mouth is closed. If a dentist does not align a bridge with your bite, it can have serious consequences. This can include discomfort and uneven pressure, potentially causing wear on natural teeth or breaking the bridge over time. A dentist needs to check and adjust your bite after placing a bridge.
Material Failure
Dental bridges are typically constructed from porcelain or metal alloys, which are durable but can wear out or break if not used correctly. A dentist may occasionally select an inappropriate material for long bridges, leading to cracks or chips, particularly in patients who are known to grind their teeth or consume hard foods.
Infection or Decay
Decay around or under a dental bridge can cause infections, often due to improper cleaning before placement or insufficient care instructions. Poor fit of the bridge can also contribute to bacterial buildup. This may lead to gum disease or bone loss if left untreated.
Dental malpractice arises when a dentist delivers care that doesn’t meet the applicable standards, leading to harm or injury to the patient. If a dentist’s carelessness or lack of attention to detail causes your bridge to fail, you may have a case for dental malpractice. Any of these issues leading to a long bridge failure could be considered dental malpractice, and you may be entitled to compensation.
The Impact of a Long Bridge Failure
A failed dental bridge can have a big impact on your quality of life. Not only can it cause discomfort and pain, but it can also impact everyday activities, like eating and speaking. Furthermore, the failure of a bridge can lead to other oral health problems, including:
- Damage to surrounding teeth
- Gum disease or infection
- Jaw pain or headaches from improper bite alignment
- The need for additional and often expensive dental procedures
All of these issues can be difficult to deal with and frustrating, especially if the failure of the bridge was due to your dentist’s negligence.
What Should You Do If Your Long Bridge Fails?
If your long dental bridge has failed, and you believe it was due to malpractice, it is critical to take action. Some of the steps you should take include:
Document the Failure
Take notes on what went wrong, when the problems started, and any conversations you’ve had with your dentist about the issues. This documentation will be helpful if you decide to pursue legal action.
Seek a Second Opinion
Visit another dentist or specialist to get their opinion on what went wrong with your bridge. They can help determine whether the failure was due to poor dental work.
Contact a Dental Malpractice Lawyer
If you suspect that your bridge failure is a result of negligence, it’s important to reach out to a dental malpractice lawyer. They can help you understand your rights and determine whether you have a case for compensation.
Why You Might Need a Dental Malpractice Lawyer
Long bridge failures can be incredibly frustrating, especially when they cause pain, discomfort, and further dental issues. While some failures may be due to natural causes or improper care, others are the result of poor dental work and could be considered malpractice. A dental malpractice lawyer can explain your legal options and determine if you are entitled to compensation for:
- Your pain and suffering
- Lost wages if your dental issues caused you to miss work
- All resulting medical bills
- Any necessary corrective dental work
If you think your dentist’s mistakes were the cause of your dental bridge failure, you must take action right away and seek legal guidance. An attorney will work quickly to help you seek compensation and find relief for your pain and suffering.
Contact Our Dental Malpractice Lawyer in New York Today
At Dental and Podiatry Malpractice of New York, we have extensive experience defending the rights of victims like you. Our team understands the challenges of dental malpractice cases and is dedicated to fighting for justice.