Losing one or more teeth can have a significant impact on your oral function and the appearance of your smile. However, there are many dental prosthetic options that can help restore this, including dental bridges. As the name suggests, a dental bridge acts as a bridge between teeth, filling in any spots where you are missing teeth.
With a dental bridge, you can restore your oral function and the appearance of your smile. But, just like your natural teeth, your dental bridge requires proper care to guarantee it remains in good condition. While you might worry that you don’t know how to care for it properly, ensuring a dental bridge stays in good condition is simpler than you may think.
1. Brush Twice a Day
Much like when caring for your natural teeth, it is important to maintain a regular brushing routine with your dental bridge. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to clean your bridge. Be gentle but thorough, ensuring you remove any potential food particles and plaque that may accumulate around the bridge. Make it a habit to brush for at least two minutes twice daily. Brushing properly will ensure you wash away any plaque, tartar, food particles, and bacteria, protecting your investment in a dental prosthetic.
2. Floss Daily
Flossing is crucial for preventing plaque buildup around your dental bridge and keeping your gums healthy. However, flossing your bridge isn’t as straightforward as flossing your natural teeth. Instead of using traditional floss, you may want to consider investing in dental floss threaders, super floss, or interdental brushes to help you reach those hard-to-reach areas. Using the appropriate flossing tools will allow you to get under the bridge and between the supporting teeth, removing debris that can cause tooth decay or gum disease that may jeopardize your oral health.
3. Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash
If you weren’t using an antibacterial mouthwash before getting your dental bridge, now is the perfect time to make the investment. An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque buildup and prevent gum disease. Rinsing with mouthwash daily helps to kill bacteria that can accumulate around your dental bridge and natural teeth. It is an easy step that adds an extra layer of protection to your oral hygiene routine. When choosing a mouthwash, avoid those containing alcohol, which can cause dryness and irritation.
4. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Your dental bridge is strong, but it isn’t indestructible, and it is important that you do everything in your power to prevent lasting damage. Hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candies can put undue pressure on your bridge, potentially causing damage. Similarly, sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum can get trapped under the bridge, making it difficult to clean and increasing your risk of tooth decay. Choose softer foods when making a meal or having a snack to avoid excess strain.
5. Prevent Dental Grinding
Bruxism involves the clenching, gnashing, and grinding of your teeth, and it often occurs subconsciously. If you experience jaw pain, this may indicate that you are dealing with bruxism. This grinding can put stress on your dental bridge, which may lead to damage or a need for replacement over time. If you have a history of bruxism, you should consult your dentist about getting a custom mouth guard. Not only will this protect your bridge, but it can also help you avoid additional wear on your natural teeth.
6. Maintain a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for the health of your teeth and gums. Foods high in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D support strong teeth and bones, while vitamin C helps maintain healthy gums. In addition to incorporating more nutrient-rich foods into your diet, you should limit your consumption of sugary snacks and drinks. These foods and beverages can increase your risk of decay around your bridge. By investing in a more nutritious diet, you can protect your teeth and your investment in your dental prosthetic.
7. Consider Getting a Water Flosser
A water flosser can be a great addition to your oral care routine, especially if you have a dental bridge. Water flossers use a stream of water to clean around and under your bridge, reaching areas that your traditional floss might miss. It can be particularly useful for removing food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas. If, during your last dental visit, your dental team found a buildup of plaque and tartar around hard-to-reach teeth, adding a water flosser to your oral care routine can help you protect your teeth and dental bridge.
8. Schedule Regular Dental Visits
In addition to everything we’ve mentioned above, it is important that you remember to schedule regular dental visits. During these cleanings and checkups, your dental team can monitor the condition of your dental bridge and the health of your surrounding teeth and tissue. They can also ensure the device is still fitting correctly and there are no signs of decay or gum disease. Professional cleanings can also help remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone can’t reach.
Invest in Your Smile at Avenues Dentistry
Caring for your dental bridge doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require consistency and attention to detail. By following these tips, you can keep your dental bridge in excellent condition, ensuring it lasts many years while maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. If you are looking for a dental team in Salt Lake City to help you care for your bridge, turn to our team at Avenues Dentistry.
Our team has provided the most comprehensive dental care to patients across the Salt Lake City area for decades. From dental bridges to veneers, teeth whitening, and more, we’re confident that we have the perfect dental treatment to help you achieve your oral health goals. If you would like to speak to a team member about our dental bridge services or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.
