A dental bridges is a method of teeth replacement that involves the attachment of a dental crown (or multiple dental crowns that form a bridge) and abutment teeth. An implant-supported bridge may also be an option, which is a bridge supported by implants rather than natural teeth. Regardless, keeping the dental bridge clean is essential.
Patients can protect their smile after dental bridge treatment by practicing good oral hygiene. This should include brushing, flossing and using mouthwash regularly, along with going to regular check-up visits with the general dentist, making smart dietary choices (i.e., limit sugar consumption) and protecting teeth from dental trauma.
Good oral hygiene starts with brushing regularly. Although the dental bridge is not vulnerable to tooth decay, the adjacent teeth are, which is why using a fluoride-based toothpaste is important. Brushing regularly also protects periodontal health (the gums and the underlying jawbone). This reduces the risk of issues that may put the dental bridge in jeopardy, such as bone loss in the jaw and periodontal disease.
Floss and mouthwash are also vital to good oral health after dental bridge placement. Floss removes plaque and food particles that become trapped in between natural teeth and the dental crowns. This protects the natural teeth, as well as the patient’s periodontal health. Mouthwash kills bacteria and washes away the food particles that are lodged between teeth, which also reduces the risk of periodontal concerns and tooth decay.
Regular check-up visits allow the dentist or hygienist to detect oral health concerns and issues with the dental bridge that may be hard for the dentist to detect on their own, such as deep gum pockets, worn-down enamel and signs of periodontal disease. Most dentists recommend a check-up visit and a routine dental cleaning every four to six months.
The food that we eat and the drinks that we consume also play a role in oral health. Drinking water throughout the day is a great way to keep bacteria and food particles washed away, whereas drinking soft drinks, coffee and alcohol regularly can damage teeth and the gums. It is also important to reduce the consumption of foods that are high in sugar.
A blow to the face during physical activity, being hit during contact sports or bruxism can damage a dental bridge. Be sure to receive treatment for bruxism, and wear a mouthguard if a blow to the face is possible.
You can talk to one of our dental professionals about dental bridge aftercare or schedule a consultation for teeth replacement treatment by contacting us. We are happy to help you improve your oral health and appearance through teeth replacement, and we help patients through every step of the dental bridge treatment process.
Request an appointment here: https://www.todayssmilecenter.com or call Today's Smile Center, P.C. at (248) 850-1642 for an appointment in our Berkley office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in Berkley, MI.
A dental crown usually lasts for many years. But it can become loose or fall out before it is supposed to be replaced. If your dental crown becomes dislodged or falls out, it is crucial to know how to handle the situation. Read on to find out what to do if your crown falls out.A…
Looking for a cosmetic dentist? A bright smile free from teeth stains often gives patients more confidence. Unfortunately, many over-the-counter whitening kits are not effective, dangerous to use, or the results do not last long. With professional teeth whitening from an experienced cosmetic dentist, patients can better ensure they get the long-lasting results they desire…
If your oral health challenges call for a full mouth reconstruction, you probably have a lot of questions. There are many reasons why you may feel worried about the upcoming treatments. Many of these treatments are invasive and involved. Fortunately, you can have peace of mind that the dentist has the knowledge and training to…
If you are missing all the teeth on your lower or upper jaw, you may be a good candidate for an All-on-4® system that uses four dental implants to secure a custom-fit fixed denture. It is a type of implant-supported denture that solves most of the common issues of traditional dentures. This article will outline…