A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that replaces missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth that a dentist anchors to neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. As a result, dental bridges are an ideal way to fully restore your biting, chewing, and speaking functions.
If you’re living with tooth loss, then a dental bridge can help. Other options may include partial dentures, full dentures, or dental implants. Contact Dr. Gary Horblitt in Fairfield, CT, at (203) 335-1011 to see which tooth-replacement option is best for you!
Like natural teeth, dental bridges require regular cleaning to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental problems (such as tooth decay and gum disease). In this blog, we discuss how to properly clean a dental bridge to ensure its longevity and effectiveness.
Brush Twice a Day
Brushing your dental bridge is essential to remove plaque and food particles that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently brush your bridge twice a day, just like you would with natural teeth. Be sure to brush all surfaces of the bridge, including the top, sides, and bottom.
Floss Daily
Whether or not you have a bridge, you should be flossing at least once a day. Flossing is critical to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under your bridge.
But, flossing with a bridge requires some special tools and techniques, like a floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser. Let’s explore these tools and techniques now.
Floss Threader
A floss threader looks like a big, plastic sewing needle with a blunt end. Simply place string floss through the eye of the threader, and use the threader to slide the floss under the bridge.
Interdental Brush
Interdental brushes look like plastic toothpicks with soft bristles. They are perfect for sliding between natural teeth and dental bridges, as well as removing debris trapped between the gums and bridge.
Water Flosser
A water flosser (or water pick) is a device that sprays a steady stream of water. The stream of water is strong enough to remove food debris from gum pockets and under dental bridges without damaging oral tissues.
Swish Some Mouthwash
It isn’t always easy to conduct necessary oral care while out and about. But, keeping a travel-sized bottle of mouthwash on you can help simplify your life.
Swishing some mouthwash after snacks and meals can help keep your teeth, gums, and dental bridge free and clear of disease-causing bacteria until you can properly brush and floss. Just be sure to choose an alcohol-free, antiseptic mouthwash. Swish for at least 30 seconds before spitting, and don’t rinse your mouth out with water afterward.
Attend Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain good oral health and catch any potential problems before they become serious. Schedule an appointment with our Fairfield dentist every six months to have your dental bridge checked and cleaned professionally.
Custom Dental Bridges in Fairfield, CT
Don’t let tooth loss rule your life. Regain your confidence and reclaim your health with a dental bridge from Dr. Gary Horblitt. Contact our Fairfield dental office at (203) 335-1011 or online here to request your appointment now.
