A dental bridge is a common restorative procedure designed to replace one or more missing teeth, often restoring both function and appearance. While a dental bridge can be durable and long-lasting, proper aftercare can help maintain oral health and prolong its lifespan. Understanding how to care for your dental bridge can prevent complications such as decay, gum disease, or damage to the bridge itself.
Understanding Your Dental Bridge
A dental bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, anchored in place by crowns on adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges can be made from a variety of materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys. The success of a dental bridge largely depends on the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.
This makes oral hygiene practices critically important. Even though the bridge itself cannot decay, the supporting teeth are still vulnerable to cavities and gum disease. This can compromise the stability of the restoration.
Best Tips to Care for a Dental Bridge
You want to care for your bridge like natural teeth. Dr. Jomana Shayota recommends that you follow these tips to keep your new teeth healthy.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is the foundation of dental bridge care. Dr. Shayota recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. This helps remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth, gums, and the surface of the bridge. Be gentle but thorough, especially along the gumline where plaque tends to collect.
Cleaning under the pontic is one of the most important steps in caring for a dental bridge. Food particles and bacteria can become trapped beneath the artificial tooth and lead to irritation or infection. Traditional floss may be difficult to use in this area, so floss threaders, water flossers, or interdental brushes are often recommended. These tools help clean places your toothbrush cannot reach.
Diet Considerations
Dental bridges can handle normal biting and chewing, but you want to be mindful of what you eat to help protect your restoration. Avoid chewing on very hard foods such as ice, hard candies, or popcorn kernels because these can crack or loosen the bridge. Sticky foods like caramel or taffy can also pull at the crowns and should be limited.
You also want to reduce sugary snacks and drinks. Sugar feeds bacteria that cause cavities, which can damage the natural teeth supporting the bridge. Choosing a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products helps strengthen teeth and gums. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day also helps rinse away food particles and bacteria.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Routine dental check-ups are essential for keeping your dental bridge in good condition. During your visits, Dr. Jomana Shayota will check the fit and stability of your bridge. She’ll examine the health of the surrounding teeth and gums. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that cannot be removed with home care alone.
Our dentist may also take X-rays to look for hidden problems. She can find decay under the crowns or changes in the bone supporting your teeth. Catching these issues early allows for simpler treatment and helps prevent more serious dental problems in the future. Most patients benefit from visiting the dentist every six months, or more often if recommended.
Manage Discomfort and Sensitivity
Some patients may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort after they get a bridge. This is often temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or a soft diet for a few days. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or loosening of the bridge, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Shayota.
These could indicate an issue that needs professional care. Paying attention to changes in your bite or discomfort while chewing is important for maintaining the long-term success of the restoration.
Long-Term Care
With proper care, a dental bridge can last 10 years or longer. In addition to good hygiene and smart food choices, avoiding harmful habits is key. Do not use your teeth to open packages, chew on pens, or bite your nails. These habits place extra stress on both natural teeth and restorations.
If you grind or clench your teeth, Dr. Shayota may recommend a custom night guard. Wearing a night guard protects your bridge and natural teeth from excessive force while you sleep.
By following these care tips and maintaining regular dental visits, you can enjoy the benefits of your dental bridge for many years. Dr. Jomana Shayota and her team are committed to helping you protect your smile.
Ask us about Dental Bridge Care in Franklin, MI
We’re here to help you replace missing teeth and maintain your restoration at Dental House and Aesthetics. A dental bridge could restore your bite and smile. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We welcome you to learn more about your restorative treatment options.