If you are reading this, you probably have a dental bridge! If you are interested in bridges because of a damaged or missing tooth, Vibrant Dental in Henderson will create a personalized treatment plan with you!
Bridges are implants or caps that replace a missing tooth. There are two common types of bridges, removable and fixed. The cleaning and care look different for each, but here are some great tips that will apply to both kinds. If you do not have bridges, these tips will still help you develop good oral health.
Why Care For Your Dental Bridges
Taking good care of your bridges and implants generally means that they will last longer. Good oral care of bridges can help them last ten years or even a lifetime. Eating the right foods and being careful with your mouth can also prevent harmful damage to the bridge.
If you are caring for your dental bridges, you will also have generally healthier oral health! Having a happy mouth means that the rest of your teeth will remain healthy.
Dental Routine
Caring for your mouth is caring for your dental bridges. Caring for your teeth by brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing, and using mouthwash is especially important when you have a bridge, as these habits preserve the appliance.
Brushing
Brushing your teeth twice a day is crucial for maintaining a dental bridge as it helps remove plaque and food particles. This prevents the buildup of harmful bacteria that can lead to decay and gum disease and ensures the longevity and health of your dental bridge.
Flossing
Flossing can help preserve your bridges and prevent irritation. Food can get trapped around or under the bridges and cause irritation or decay of the bridge. Remembering to floss is often the hardest part of flossing, so setting a habit of doing it after meals or when your brush your teeth will help with that.
For flossing with bridges, many dentists recommend a water flosser, which will prevent gum irritation around the bridge. You can also try a floss threader, which you may have used when you had braces. Many dentists have packs of threaders to give patients, so if you are interested you can ask at your next appointment.
Many dentists offer interdental cleaners you can use. Those are like little brushes, similar to the brushes for braces.
Mouth Wash
Ask your dentist for mouthwash recommendations specifically bridges! Mouthwash helps to prevent plaque and bacteria, which is very important to avoid when you have bridges. Mouthwash is another part of your dental routine that will assist with general oral care and is best to use at least once a day after you brush.
Foods to Avoid
Part of caring for your bridge includes avoiding certain foods that may damage your bridge. The worst culprits are super sticky or super hard foods. Here are some foods that might be damaging, with substitutions if you find that you are craving them:
- Large chunks of tough meat. Instead, cut the meat into smaller pieces or try tender meat.
- Popcorn. Instead, try chips or veggie straws.
- Taffy and caramel. Try a less chewy sweet or denture-friendly gum.
If you are worried about a kind of food, try to avoid it and eat a substitute instead. Substituting a hazardous food for a safe one protects your teeth.
Visiting Your Dentist
Visiting your dentist routinely is even more important if you have bridges. Going once every six months allows you to have good oral health. It also allows the dentist to check in on your bridge to make sure it is still stable and doing its job. Of course, if you feel any pain or sensitivity around your bridge schedule a dentist visit too.
Vibrant Dental, in the Henderson area, offers cosmetic dentistry and routine check-ups. Schedule a visit today!