Getting a dental bridge is a significant step toward restoring your smile and improving your oral health. Whether you’ve just had a bridge placed or are considering one, the right care will ensure your bridge lasts. Bridge after care also maintains the health of your surrounding teeth and gums. Dr. Nathan Dancykier and Dr. Keith Boenning have tips for dental bridge aftercare in Towson, MD, for the best care.
Understanding How to Care for a Dental Bridge
A bridge consists of two or more crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap (known as abutment teeth) and a false tooth or teeth (called pontics) in between. These components are usually made from porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination. Because a bridge is anchored to natural teeth or dental implants, its stability also depends on your tooth, gum, and bone health.
Immediate Care After Placement
You may feel some sensitivity after the dental bridge is cemented in place, especially to hot or cold foods and beverages. This sensitivity may last for a few days to a couple of weeks as your mouth adjusts. You want to avoid very hard, sticky, or overly hot and cold foods during this period.
We may recommend that you chew on the opposite side of the mouth to reduce pressure on the new bridge. Contact our office if your bite feels uneven or the bridge causes discomfort after a few days. We may need to make small adjustments so the bridge fits properly and doesn’t put unnecessary stress on the surrounding teeth.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
A dental bridge doesn’t remove the need for daily oral care. In fact, it makes it even more important. Since the bridge is anchored to your natural teeth, decay or gum disease in those areas can compromise the entire structure. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste is essential. Be sure to clean around the bridge carefully where it meets the gum line.
Flossing requires a slightly different technique around a bridge. Traditional floss won’t slide between the false tooth and the gums, so using a floss threader, interdental brush, or a water flosser is recommended to clean under the pontic and around the abutment teeth. These tools help remove plaque and food particles that could lead to gum disease or bad breath.
Regular Dental Visits
Routine dental checkups and cleanings are essential for the long-term success of your dental bridge. During these visits, your dentist will examine the bridge to ensure it’s still in good condition and check for any signs of decay or gum disease in the surrounding teeth. Professional cleanings help remove tartar buildup in hard-to-reach areas and prevent complications that could shorten the lifespan of your bridge.
If you grind your teeth at night, our dentists may recommend a night guard to protect the bridge from excessive pressure. Grinding can lead to chips or cracks in both natural teeth and dental restorations.
Diet and Lifestyle Tips
Being mindful of what you eat can help protect your bridge from damage. Very sticky foods like chewing gum or caramel can loosen the bridge over time. Hard foods such as ice, nuts, or hard candies might chip or crack your restoration.
It’s a good idea to adopt a diet that supports oral health, one rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and dairy products that strengthen your teeth and gums.
You also want to avoid tobacco, as smoking can lead to gum disease and affect the longevity of dental work. Smoking also increases the risk of staining and bad breath, which can detract from the appearance of your new bridge.
Learn More About Dental Bridge Care in Towson, MD
At Dental Implants & Cosmetic Dentistry of Towson, we understand the importance of a complete smile and healthy bite. If you have a missing tooth or need an extraction, a dental bridge could help.
An with the right care and maintenance, you could enjoy the benefits of a new smile for many years. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options for tooth loss.