Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential for everyone, but it becomes especially important when you have a dental bridge. A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent natural teeth or implants. While it could restore your smile and help maintain facial structure, it also requires specific care to ensure its longevity and to keep your mouth healthy. Without proper hygiene, plaque and food debris can accumulate around the bridge, leading to gum disease, decay in the supporting teeth, or even bridge failure.
Brushing with a Focus on Precision
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is fundamental, but when you have a dental bridge, the technique becomes even more critical. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean all surfaces of your teeth and the bridge thoroughly. Pay special attention to the gum line and the area where the bridge meets your natural teeth. Angling the brush slightly under the bridge can help dislodge food particles and plaque that might otherwise be missed. Some people find electric toothbrushes more effective, as they can provide more consistent pressure and reach tricky areas.
Flossing Under and Around the Bridge
Traditional floss doesn’t work well under a dental bridge, but that doesn’t mean you can skip flossing. Specialized tools such as floss threaders, super floss, or interdental brushes can make the task easier. These tools allow you to reach underneath the bridge and between teeth, removing trapped debris and reducing the risk of gum inflammation. Daily flossing with the right technique can prevent plaque buildup that leads to decay and infection around the supporting teeth.
Using an Antibacterial Mouthwash
A good antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash can be a valuable addition to your oral hygiene routine. Rinsing after brushing and flossing helps reach areas you might miss with a brush or floss, offering extra protection against bacteria that can cause gum disease or tooth decay. Look for mouthwashes designed to fight plaque and promote gum health. Avoid options with high alcohol content if you have sensitive tissues, as they may cause irritation.
Professional Cleanings and Regular Dental Checkups
Even with the most meticulous home care, you’ll need professional cleanings and exams to maintain your dental bridge. Dental professionals can remove tartar buildup that you can’t reach at home and can examine the condition of your bridge and surrounding teeth. Regular checkups allow your dentist to detect any issues early, such as loosening of the bridge, decay in the abutment teeth, or signs of gum disease. Most patients with dental bridges benefit from seeing their dentist every six months, but your dentist may recommend more frequent visits based on your individual needs.
Staying Mindful of Diet and Habits
Your diet plays a significant role in your oral health. Avoiding excessively sticky or hard foods can help prevent damage to the bridge. Sugary foods and beverages can contribute to plaque formation, especially around the bridge’s margins. Staying hydrated helps stimulate saliva flow, which is your body’s natural defense against bacteria. If you smoke, consider quitting, not only for your overall health but also because smoking can contribute to gum disease and reduce the lifespan of your dental bridge.
Dental Bridge Care in Jackson Heights, NY
At Fedida Family Dentistry & Dental Spa, we understand the importance of a complete bite. If you have a missing tooth or need an extraction, a dental bridge could help preserve your oral health. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your restorative dentistry treatment options.