If you’ve invested in a dental bridge for broken tooth repair, you’re probably wondering how to properly care for it. A dental bridge can restore your smile and confidence, though it’s a significant investment.
With the right care, a dental bridge can last 15 years or more. However, the longevity of your dental restoration investment depends on the health of the supporting teeth and gums.
At AH Dentistry, in dental bridges in Dexter, MI, and the surrounding areas. With 20 years of experience in the industry, we’re committed to helping you take care of your oral health. Contact us today to learn more about our practice.
How Should I Care for My Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge, or pontic, for a missing tooth can address cosmetic concerns, however it requires some extra care beyond standard brushing and flossing.
A dental bridge is fixed to the teeth, which creates a small space beneath the artificial tooth that a typical toothbrush can’t reach. The plaque that gets trapped in this area is the biggest threat to your dental health.
By using the right specialized tools, you can ensure your pontic is effectively clean, protect the anchoring teeth, and ensure your investment lasts.
Why is Standard Floss Not Enough?
A dental bridge is made up of the bridge itself, as well as dental crowns, which are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap. The pontic is the artificial tooth that is suspended in the gap. It’s the space underneath the pontic where food and plaque can accumulate if not removed properly.
Standard floss can’t slide into this area because the bridge is one continuous piece. If you can’t remove the plaque, it can cause the abutment teeth with crowns to begin decaying.
In addition, you risk gum disease from the tissue under the pontic becoming inflamed and infected. Both of these issues can eventually cause the pontic to fail.
What Do You Need for Bridge Flossing?
If you want to floss properly underneath your dental bridge, you’ll need a floss threader. This small, flexible plastic loop allows you to guide the floss under the pontic and pull it through beneath the entire length of the bridge. This provides an effective clean underneath the pontic surface, as well as the abutment crowns.
Instead of a floss threader, you can also use superfloss to effectively clean your investment. Superfloss is a specialty floss that comes in pre-cut strands with a stiff threader end, fluffier sponge section, and regular floss section.
The stiff end makes it easy for you to thread the floss without a separate threader, while the sponge section removes debris from under the pontic. Water flossers are another option for cleaning under the bridge and abutment crowns.
What Do You Need for Dental Bridge Protection?
Aside from flossing, proper brushing techniques are essential for maintaining your pontic. A soft-bristled toothbrush can help care for the gum line around the abutment crowns, where the pontic meets the natural tooth.
In addition, you can also protect your bridge by avoiding chewing on hard items. This way, you don’t add stress to the pontic or abutments. Hard items can cause the pontic to chip or dislodge.
Of course, regular dental cleanings and professional care are critical to protecting your investment. Be sure to schedule regular six month cleanings. Dental hygienists have specialized tools that can easily clean under pontics and crowns. They can also identify signs of decay before they escalate.
Contact AH Dentistry Today for Expert Dental Bridge Care
Looking for a dentist experienced in dental bridge care in Dexter, MI, or the surrounding areas? If so, visit our team at AH Dentistry.
With 20 years of experience in the industry, our dentists are experienced in everything from general and family dentistry to cosmetic dentistry.
We provide expert care to all our clients and take the time to form long-lasting relationships so you feel confident and comfortable.
Want to learn more about our dental team? Call (734) 222-9140 or contact us online today to get started.