A dental bridge is more than just a cosmetic fix. It’s a long-term investment in your oral health. By filling in the gaps left by missing teeth, dental bridges could restore your smile, improve your ability to chew and speak, and keep the rest of your teeth from shifting out of place. However, like any dental restoration, a bridge requires consistent care to function well and last as long as possible. Whether you’ve had your bridge for years or just recently got it placed, understanding how to maintain it properly can help you avoid complications and preserve your oral health.
Commit to Consistent Oral Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene is the foundation of caring for a dental bridge. Because the bridge relies on the surrounding natural teeth for support, it’s essential to keep those teeth and your gums healthy. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque and food particles that can build up around the bridge. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal, as it can gently clean around the edges of the bridge without damaging the surrounding gum tissue.
Flossing becomes slightly more involved with a bridge, especially if it’s a traditional fixed bridge that spans across two crowns. You’ll need to use a floss threader, super floss, or a water flosser to clean underneath the false tooth (pontic) and around the abutment teeth. This step is crucial to prevent gum disease and decay from developing in the areas that are harder to reach with a standard toothbrush.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are essential for anyone with a dental bridge. During these visits, your dentist will examine the bridge to ensure it’s still fitting properly and that there are no signs of wear, decay, or gum issues around the supporting teeth. Professional cleanings are also important, as they can remove tartar buildup in places you might miss during your daily routine. Catching problems early, such as inflammation, loosening, or damage to the bridge, can make a big difference in avoiding costly repairs or replacements. Don’t skip your routine appointments, even if everything feels fine.
Watch What You Eat
While a dental bridge is designed to function like your natural teeth, it’s wise to be mindful of what you eat. Extremely hard or sticky foods can place undue stress on the bridge and may even cause it to loosen or crack over time. Foods like ice, hard candy, or chewy caramels are best avoided. If you do enjoy crunchier items like raw carrots or nuts, try to chew them on the side opposite your bridge to reduce pressure. Additionally, limiting sugary foods and beverages can help protect the supporting teeth from decay. Even though the pontic isn’t vulnerable to cavities, the teeth anchoring your bridge certainly are.
Address Grinding or Clenching
Bruxism, or the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, can significantly reduce the lifespan of a dental bridge. The constant pressure can lead to cracks, loosening, or even fractures in the porcelain. If you suspect you grind your teeth, or if your dentist sees signs of wear, consider wearing a custom night guard. It’s a simple, effective way to protect both your natural teeth and your dental work.
Pay Attention to Changes
If your bite starts to feel off, you notice discomfort while chewing, or the bridge feels loose, don’t ignore it. These changes could indicate an underlying issue, such as a problem with the supporting teeth or damage to the bridge itself. Prompt attention could prevent the issue from worsening and help preserve your restoration.
Dental Bridge Care in Cohoes, NY
At The Center for Complete Dental Care, your oral health is our top priority. We understand the importance of having a full smile and complete bite. If you have missing teeth, a dental bridge could help restore your quality of life. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options for tooth loss.