Dental Bridge Maintenance: Keeping Your Smile Healthy

Maintaining your dental bridge can make your new smile comfortable and stunning. It can take more effort, but the results will be worth it. Following the dentist’s instructions can help you keep your smile longer. Here are the details you must consider about dental bridge maintenance.

Refrain from eating hard or cold food

A dental bridge is often made of ceramic material so that it looks and feels like natural teeth. These restorations are durable and strong. But they also wear down with time. Ensuring the longevity of these dental replacements will let one maximize the use of this investment.

Part of maintaining a dental bridge is avoiding specific foods. Refrain from eating hard or cold foods. These substances can damage the restoration because of the high level of pressure exerted on the piece of food. Soft or semi-hard meals can reduce the risk of damaging the dental bridge.

Brush the teeth two times a day

Research shows that some people do not brush because they are afraid to tamper with the new dental bridge. On the contrary, regular brushing is crucial in maintaining this dental replacement. Brushing at least two times a day can prevent plaque buildup. It can also ward off other issues related to gum and tooth health.

Flossing must always accompany brushing. A soft-bristled toothbrush can prevent scratching the restorations. Perform circular motions. Keep the angle of the toothbrush at 45 degrees facing the gum.

Use a fluoride mouthwash

This type of oral rinse is important after installing the dental bridge. A fluoride rinse can prevent bacteria buildup around the prosthesis. It can also strengthen the gumline. Brushing is ideal, but this rinse adds more protection against cavities, bacteria, and gum disease.

Clean under the restoration

A dental bridge is attached to the teeth, which does not leave enough room for regular flossing. The dentist can suggest cleaning tools to help clean areas a toothbrush or regular floss cannot reach. Interdental toothbrushes can clean between teeth. Floss threaders can clean between natural teeth.

Schedule regular dental checks

These visits can help the dentist identify any brewing problem. Determining the status of the treated teeth and the dental bridge can happen during these checkups. The dentist will perform preventive treatments to keep the restoration and teeth in top shape. Keeping these appointments can help the patient maximize the bridge.

More important points

Research shows that most dentists do not place a dental bridge in individuals younger than 17 or 18 years old. That is why caring for young teeth is important. Children who lose their permanent teeth will have other restorations. A flipper or a temporary partial denture can benefit the child the most.

A dental bridge can replace up to three consecutive teeth. Some individuals can have a bridge that replaces up to four teeth. However, longer pontics need more support. A longer bridge will need healthy natural abutment teeth on both sides of the gap.