Have you recently had a dental bridge placed? Congratulations! Replacing missing teeth provides so many oral health, overall health, and mental health benefits. Patients with restored teeth are less likely to suffer from cavities and gum disease that can lead to overall health problems like diabetes and heart disease. A complete smile also promotes better self-esteem and can open many doors of opportunity when it comes to your career.

Proper dental care is an essential part of maintaining good oral health and extending the life of your dental bridge. Most bridges last between 10 and 15 years, but some last even longer when the bridge-wearer practices good oral hygiene and avoids bad habits. Here are four tips for making your dental bridge last as long as possible:

1.    Brush twice a day

If you aren’t already brushing in the morning and evening, now is the time to start! Most dentists recommend using an electric toothbrush or soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoridated toothpaste. Without brushing twice a day, plaque and tartar will build up on the tooth surfaces and along the gum line causing cavities and gum disease.

Brushing with a dental bridge is the same as brushing natural teeth. Be sure to brush gently, in a circular motion so you don’t damage any dental enamel. 

2.    Floss daily

Flossing is the only way to remove plaque, tartar, and food particles from between the teeth. Patients of all ages should floss at least once a day, after their last meal.

For people with a dental bridge, regular floss won’t do the trick around the bridge. To clean above or below the prosthetic tooth, use an interdental brush, floss threader, or water pick.

3.    Avoid hard foods and objects

Chewing on ice, hard candy, and hard non-food items can really damage teeth and especially a dental bridge. Nail-biting does the same! Ceramic dental bridges are extremely strong and durable, just like natural teeth, but that doesn’t mean they are exempt from breaking or cracking, especially when under excessive force.

To ensure your dental bridge lasts as long as possible try to avoid chewing on hard foods and objects completely. Instead, chew on sugar-free gum that actually cleans and strengthens teeth.

4.    Use a fluoride rinse

Brushing and flossing are the most important parts of an at-home oral hygiene routine but adding a fluoride rinse can add another layer of defense against disease-causing bacteria. Rinsing with fluoride is a helpful way to prevent bacteria and plaque from building up around the gum line. It also helps strengthen dental enamel!

Dental Bridge Dentist in Grant Park

At Smiles 4 Grant Park, Dr. Abbey Lee provides patients with high-quality materials and the most recent dental technology. Her experience and training make her the best option for patients seeking to replace missing teeth with a dental bridge, denture, or dental implants. If you aren’t a candidate for one, you may be for another! During an initial consultation, Dr. Lee can determine which restorative option will provide the most benefits for your smile while keeping your budget and preferences in mind.

Don’t let tooth loss define you, and don’t let it keep you from living your best life. Contact our friendly dental team today at (404) 328-7177 to schedule an appointment.