Caring for a new bridge is not only vital to ensure its longevity, but to also keep the surrounding teeth healthy and strong. Decay and damage of these supporting teeth could lead to complications. Because we don’t want to see you come back so soon, here’s our guide on taking care of your dental bridge from our great prosthodontist in Pompano Beach.
Dental bridges are a convenient dental treatment, and, for some patients, the only alternative. Here are five tips to take care of one so you can guarantee your bridge’s long-term success.
Dental hygiene is an essential factor in the mouth’s overall health. However, if you have a bridge, this rings especially true for you. Bridges require regular maintenance to prevent plaque build-up, gum disease, and bad breath.
To take care of a dental bridge, make sure to brush your teeth two to three times a day for a total of two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for cleaning dental restorations. These are less abrasive and won’t cause damage to the bridge.
It’s also crucial to floss at least once daily, as there are certain places a brush can’t reach.
We recommend using fluoride toothpaste. They offer many benefits to your oral health, like:
Additionally, consider adding an antiseptic mouth rinse to your daily routine. These are designed to target bacteria and different types of microbes, reducing the risk of an infection. However, keep in mind that mouthwash isn’t a replacement for brushing and flossing.
The biggest challenge when cleaning a dental bridge is washing certain areas that common toothbrushes don’t reach. For that matter, we have interdental brushes, designed to fit between the gaps of your bridge.
To get rid of any last bits of food or plaque, carefully place the brush between each opening and move it back and forth. However, be careful not to apply excessive pressure, as this could damage your bridge or irritate your gums.
On the other hand, a water flosser is a cleaning device that shoots a thin stream of water. The benefit lies in the water’s fluid composition, making it perfect to reach difficult spots.
Using it is easy. Just add warm water to the water flosser’s reservoir and change the pressure setting to suit your needs. Then, position the tip of the water flosser between the gap of your bridge and let the water dislodge any remaining particles.
Certain types of foods are not recommended for patients with a bridge, because they have the potential to damage the surface. Certain foods, like caramel, candy, ice cream, and chewing gum, can also get adhered to the spaces in between your bridge, leading to the build-up of bacteria.
Hard items like nuts and popcorn kernels can be too thought to chew with a bridge, causing it to chip and break. Moreover, the intake of excessively sugary or acidic drinks is not recommended.
Another drink to avoid is excessively hot infusions and drinks. Certain types of dental bridges can suffer damage when exposed to water at high temperatures.
Bruxism is your oral health’s greatest enemy. This occurs when you clench, grind, or gnash your teeth, often subconsciously. In fact, many people suffer from bruxism in their sleep. Bruxism is very dangerous because it can damage your teeth and dislodge your dental bridge.
The causes of this issue cannot be attributed to some physical health problems, as they mostly come from stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders. However, there are some ways you can combat it:
The psychological nature of bruxism’s underlying causes is one of the factors contributing to its complexity. However, being able to implement lifestyle changes, and avoid unnecessary strain, won’t only protect your dental bridge, but also improve your overall health.
Even if you learn the best ways of taking care of a bridge, nothing can replace a dentist’s professional eye. It’s important to schedule regular meetups with your dentist to ensure optimal dental health.
We recommend having a personal check-up every six months, especially during the first period after getting a brand-new dental bridge.
The average dental bridge lasts between five and seven years, however, as long as it’s properly taken care of, that can extend up to 10 years.
Your new dental bridge should help you feel confident in your smile and dental health. Now, you know how to take care of it, to extend that happiness as long as it’s possible. On a day-to-day basis, all of these practices may seem bothersome, but they will be worth it in the long run.
If you still have any doubts, reach out to get a check-up for your dental bridge!
If you have any questions about the services we offer, don’t hesitate to call Park Plaza Dental. Our team is here to make your next appointment a comfortable and productive one.