A fixed dental bridge is a restoration that replaces one tooth or several teeth in a row. This restores your smile and makes chewing and biting easier, but it also supports oral health by helping maintain bite alignment and reducing stress on the surrounding teeth and gums.
Dental bridges can last for a decade or longer. However, you need to practice regular preventive care to lower the risk of damage and keep the bridge in great shape.
Skilled general dentist Irma Francisco, DDS, often counsels patients at her practice in San Jose, California, on caring for their bridges. Here are her four top tips for daily care:
Because fixed bridges rely on the surrounding teeth for support, it’s essential you lower the risk of cavities and gum disease that can affect the bridge’s efficacy and alignment. Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use a fluoride toothpaste to help prevent tooth decay.
In addition, floss your teeth at least once daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and beneath your gum line. Flossing a fixed bridge may require special tools like floss threaders or interdental brushes. Dr. Francisco will explain how to use these properly if you need them.
These two daily practices prevent plaque from building up, ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy.
Dental bridges have many nooks and crannies where bacteria and food particles can hide, so it makes sense to take additional maintenance steps beyond brushing and flossing. For example, rinsing with an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can help strengthen your teeth and lower the number of harmful oral bacteria.
You may also benefit from using a water flosser as a supplement to regular flossing. This massages your gums and makes it easier to get into those areas that dental floss can’t always access.
Eating a balanced diet ensures your teeth and gums get the nutrients they need to thrive. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as leafy greens, almonds, and yogurt, can be especially beneficial.
On the flip side, limit sticky, chewy, or hard foods that can crack or otherwise damage your bridge. If you do eat things like popcorn or taffy, try to chew them on the opposite side of your mouth. Likewise, drink plenty of water with meals and snacks to wash away bacteria and keep your mouth hydrated.
Beyond at-home maintenance, schedule a checkup with Dr. Francisco every six months. A semi-annual oral exam and professional dental cleaning help lower the risk of cavities and gum disease. It also gives Dr. Francisco a chance to check the fit of your bridge, identify early signs of wear, and keep your surrounding teeth and gums healthy. Catching issues early means they can be treated quickly and affordably, rather than turning into bigger problems down the road.
Daily care and regular checkups can go a long way toward protecting your bridge and keeping your smile healthy. When was the last time you had yours evaluated? To request an appointment, contact us by calling the office or booking online today.
