Caring for a dental bridge is simple
Dental bridges are used to join the gap created by missing teeth. Caring for your dental bridge is as simple as caring for the rest of your mouth. Good oral hygiene and vigilante brushing and flossing play a key part in caring for your dental bridge. To clean your dental bridge, you’ll need to get between the teeth that are supporting it and the area underneath. You can do this with dental floss, however, this is tricky for some people because nylon dental floss can become slippery and you may not have enough room to get between your teeth.
An alternative is to use an inter-dental brush to get between and under your bridge. This kind of brush has bristles that look like a very tiny pine tree which is able to get between teeth easily. Another way to clean your bridge is with a water flossing device. The great thing about water flossing (sometimes called a “waterpik” after the brand of the same name) is that it acts as an oral irrigator that removes plaque better than string floss. Besides cleaning your dental bridge, a water flossing device can help reduce bleeding and gingivitis.
There is more than just flossing
Besides brushing and flossing, eating a balanced diet can also help care for your dental bridge. Avoid foods that are high in sugar and sodium. Incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into your daily food intake and stay away from foods that can get stuck in your teeth like popcorn, potato chips and chewy candies. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help by getting rid of bacteria around your bridge. If your dentist has prescribed a specific antibacterial mouthwash, it’s important that you read the label to see how much you should use.
If you’re using an over-the-counter mouthwash, a small cup is usually included by most companies that indicates the proper dosage. Swish the mouthwash around your entire mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. You should keep your remaining teeth healthy. This will ensure that your dental bridge lasts for more than five years. If you’re lucky, and maintain positive oral hygiene, you can avoid having to replace your bridge. It’s important to keep a regular cleaning schedule for your teeth and see your dentist every six months unless otherwise advised.