Dental bridges are one of the most common restorative dentistry treatments for missing teeth. Traditionally, bridges were made from gold or metal alloys, but today they are more commonly made with medical-grade ceramic that appears much more natural. Modern dental bridges can also be created with a metal substructure and ceramic coating to provide a beautiful appearance and durability.
On average, a dental bridge can last anywhere from five to twenty years when taken proper care of. Continue reading to learn how to care for a dental bridge from our experienced Denver dentists.
Brush properly two times a day.
Most of us learn how to brush our teeth by watching our parents, but has anyone ever explained the right way to you? If so, you probably don’t remember, so here’s a refresher:
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, scrub the front, back, and top of every tooth in small, circular motions. Patients who have a dental bridge should use a gentle toothpaste (one that doesn’t contain hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and other harsh ingredients).
Brushing your teeth in the morning and evening is essential to maintaining a beautiful smile whether you have a dental bridge or not. However, for patients with dental bridges, this is especially important, yet it is not enough! The next three tips are essential to caring for a dental bridge.
Floss every day.
Flossing between your teeth ensures that no food particles or debris remain in the mouth for longer than 24 hours. When they do, your mouth may experience serious consequences.
In addition to flossing between each tooth, patients must floss underneath their bridge. Flossing a dental bridge may be a bit more difficult than flossing natural teeth, but these tools can help keep the bridge free of food particles, debris, and bacteria:
- Floss threaders
- Interproximal brushes
- Dental picks
Waterpiks can also be used in conjunction with one of the three tools listed above.
Quit bad habits.
There are several bad habits that could cause severe damage to your dental bridge and other bad habits that will put your oral health at risk.
As with your natural teeth, your dental bridge should never be used as a tool to open or tear items. Hard foods such as ice, popcorn, and nuts can also harm your bridge. Try to avoid these as much as possible.
Habits that put your oral health at risk include:
- Smoking and chewing tobacco
- Teeth grinding
- Drinking too much soda and other sugary drinks
- Eating sticky, sugary foods often
Engaging in these practices can lead to gum disease, cavities, and further tooth loss.
Visit the dentist at least every six months.
One of the greatest things you can do for your dental bridge, oral health, and overall health is to visit your dentist for routine dental cleanings and exams at least every six months. The dentist will examine your dental bridge as well as the rest of your teeth to ensure everything is in good condition, then complete a thorough cleaning.
Routine exams and cleanings give the dentist an opportunity to catch oral health issues in their earliest stages. It is imperative that dental bridge patients attend these appointments.
More Dental Bridge Tips From your Denver Dentists
To learn more about dental bridges contact our friendly Denver dental team to schedule an initial consultation at Metropolitan Dental Care. Call (303) 534-2626 today.
