5 TIPS FOR DENTAL BRIDGE CARE

If you have a couple of teeth missing and aren’t ready for dentures or implants, a dental bridge is your solution.  A dental bridge is a false tooth, or pontic, held in place by teeth on either side of the gap. Bridges are perfect for restoring your smile and bite, and help you regain confidence. They are also more comfortable, durable, and require less maintenance than dentures. However, that doesn’t mean you can neglect proper dental care for your bridges. They, too, require oral care and cleaning. Here are several dental bridge care tips from Dobson Ranch Dental Care.

5 Tips for Dental Bridge Care

1. BRUSH LIKE NORMAL

As a regular part of your oral health care, normal brushing can be done with your dental bridge. You should always use a soft-bristle brush to help remove plaque and gently massage your gums. Brushing at least twice a day is the best way to protect your teeth from plaque buildup and cavities. Even with a dental bridge in place, your brushing habits shouldn’t change, and there is no extra work. This fact is a major highlight for patients who are considering this as an option.

2.  USE PROPER FLOSSING TECHNIQUES

The one thing that will change about your daily dental care is flossing. Unlike your normal teeth that have gaps between them, dental bridges are one solid piece. This means you won’t be able to floss between each mold as you do with your natural teeth. However, you shouldn’t skip flossing around your dental bridge. Because this cosmetic dental piece sits right above the gum line and natural tooth ridge, there is still a microscopic crevice that food and bacteria can fit into. To clear this out and keep the space below your bridge clean, you should consider investing in a water pick or use a floss threader to get underneath. Threaders are similar to what patients with metal braces and brackets use, so ask your dentist about them if you can’t find them on your own.

3. WATCH WHAT YOU EAT

When you have a dental bridge, you’ll want to watch what you eat. This means avoiding hard, solid foods like nuts, candy, ice, and bones, especially if your bridge is porcelain or ceramic. You should also avoid using your mouth as an opening device for chip bags or bottles, which you should already avoid doing with your natural teeth. However, unlike dentures, you can continue to enjoy your favorite foods like steak, apples, and popcorn. With a bridge, you don’t run the risk of it coming dislodged from your mouth.

4. USE A FLOURIDE RINSE

While the purpose of a dental bridge is to restore the crown of your natural teeth, you shouldn’t neglect the gum line. Flossing can help remove larger particles of food and plaque, but using a fluoride rinse can help wash away even smaller particles. The fluoride also helps keep the supporting teeth strong and healthy while fortifying your dentition from tooth decay. If you’re prone to gum disease or cavities, then using a fluoride rinse is the best way to promote healthy teeth and gums at home.

5. DON’T SKIP DENTAL VISITS

As part of your normal dental care, you should see your dentist every six months. During your normal visit, your dental hygienist can remove calculus plaque that has built up and can’t be removed with normal brushing and flossing. Scaling and polishing your teeth and the dental bridge will help prevent tooth decay and keep your dental bridge in good shape. A dental bridge should last anywhere between 10-15 years, and not skipping your dental exams can help prolong its life.

SCHEDULE YOUR DENTAL APPOINTMENT TODAY

If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist who can help restore your smile and your confidence, then come see us at Dobson Ranch Dental Care. We proudly serve residents of all ages throughout Mesa, AZ. Whether you need a dental bridge, teeth whitening, dentures, or emergency dental care, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call today at (480) 838-8558.