If you are missing teeth, it can affect your smile, confidence, and even how you eat. Many people will look to dental bridges in Aspen as a solution. A bridge is a restoration that closes the gaps left by one or more missing teeth. A dental bridge is anchored to the natural teeth or implants. Dental bridges are made to resemble your other teeth and make it easier to chew and speak properly with the missing tooth or teeth. Getting a dental bridge is just the first step; you have to care for your dental bridge, too!
How Do Dental Bridges Work?
A typical bridge consists of 2 or more crowns that are placed on either side of the gap, with a false crown or crowns in the gap. The crowns are typically cemented onto your natural teeth or implants to keep them in place. Bridges can last for many years, but it is important to properly take care of the bridge, as well as practice good oral hygiene and return to the dentist regularly.
Do Dental Bridges Require Special Care?
Dental bridges do require maintenance to keep your mouth healthy and the bridge strong. Your teeth and gums around the dental bridge can still develop decay and gum disease. If you do not maintain proper care, you may have to address decay below the bridge and/or repair or replace the bridge itself.
Steps to Care for Dental Bridges
Caring for your dental bridge will not be a complicated situation. To properly care for the bridge, you will want to follow these simplified key steps:
- Brush Twice a Day: When brushing, use a soft-bristle toothbrush to brush all surfaces on the teeth and the bridge.
- Floss the Right Way: Use either a floss threader or special bridge floss to remove food bits from under the bridge.
- Rinse with Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help control bacteria and keep the gum area healthy.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Do not bite on hard candy or ice; eating sticky foods could also compromise the bridge.
- Visit Your Dentist: Professional cleaning and checkups should be conducted at least every 6 months. Call your dentist near you to schedule the routine cleaning!
Common Questions About Bridge Care
Does a dental bridge require special care?
Yes. The bridge will require more care than your natural teeth to ensure decay and gum disease do not develop. Practicing proper hygiene every day and attending dental visits regularly will be key components.
Can a bridge get cavities?
The abutment teeth that support the bridge can experience cavities, and that is why brushing and flossing, as well as visiting the dentist and getting check-ups, are so important.
How long does a dental bridge last?
With proper care, a bridge can last from 10-15 years or more. Again, it depends on how well you practice oral hygiene and attend the dentist.
What if something does not feel right with my bridge?
If you are experiencing pain, looseness of the bridge, or sensitivity, contact your expert dentist as soon as possible. You want to catch the issue before it turns into something bigger.
Dental Bridge Care Instructions
- Gently clean it and refrain from using sticky foods that may dislodge or break it.
- Daily floss threaders or interdental brushes may be preferable to using traditional floss.
- Make sure to go to routine exams so your dentist can keep an eye on the bridge and any surrounding teeth.
- Use a gentle mouth rinse every day to control bacteria and keep your gums healthy.
Keep Your Smile Strong with Montreux Dental Clinic
A dental bridge is an investment in your health and smile for the long haul. Our Montreux Dental Clinic staff is here to help you from start to finish, from determining the right bridge for you to learning how to properly care for it. As part of a routine visit, we will make sure the bridge you chose is staying in place and your teeth and gums are healthy.
Call Montreux Dental Clinic today to make sure a small issue does not become a big problem. Keep your smile healthy and beautiful!