If it happens that one or more teeth are lost, a dental bridge can be a beautiful and practical replacement. However, it is imperative that dental bridges, just like real teeth, are regularly maintained to guarantee their longevity and proper functioning. This article is going to help you understand everything you need to know about caring for your dental bridge so that it lasts long.
The do’s and don’ts of caring for your dental bridge
Dental bridges are not your own teeth, but they require special care to have them last as long as possible in your mouth. Having just had a dental bridge installed to replace lost teeth, there are a few things that you should and should not do.
Dos
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Brush twice daily:
Plague rapidly covers around the crown of natural and artificial teeth. Therefore, a good routine for keeping microorganisms and irritants away is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth and the dental bridge twice a day. Therefore, using whitening toothpaste should be avoided in order not to damage the dental bridge.
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Flossing daily:
Dental bridges are supported by neighboring natural teeth. There is a potential of losing your dental bridge if you damage the adjacent teeth. Therefore, in order to minimize the possibility of tooth decay or gum disease, you should do interdental cleaning in between all of your natural teeth at least once every day.
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Cleaning beneath the bridge:
You can prevent food from getting stuck between the bridge and your gums by cleaning under the bridge on a regular basis. For dental bridge cleaning ask your Youngtown dentist whether you should use floss threaders or interproximal brushes.
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Dental visits:
With the replacement of teeth through dental bridges or any type of repair, regular dental checkups are imperative. Dental bridge patients who are also under high level of gum disease may also be asked to visit their family dentist in Phoenix more frequently.
Don’ts:
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Neglect oral hygiene:
Plaque accumulation, gum disease, and other oral health problems can shorten the life of your dental bridge and make it less stable if you don’t brush and floss regularly. You can keep your teeth and gums in the best possible condition by making good oral hygiene a top priority.
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Bite or chew on hard objects:
Your dental bridge is more likely to sustain damage or become dislodged if you bite down on or chew on hard objects like ice, pencils, or fingernails.
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Skip dental appointments:
If you do not make your dental appointments you will not receive needed preventative care and prompt intervention. Regular visits to a dental office in Phoenix will help you to monitor the state of the dental bridge and deal with any problem on the spot.
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Delay repairs or adjustments:
Do not delay going to a dentist if you have any loose teeth, pain or any damage to the bridge. Leaving your bridge repairs for a later time could cost you more.
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Smoke or use tobacco products:
In addition to the problem of discoloring your teeth, gum disease, oral cancer and some other problems can compromise the lifespan and stability of your dental bridge if you smoke or use tobacco products. Good oral and systemic health as a whole can be achieved if quitting smoking is done.
Conclusion:
Proper oral hygiene, frequent dental checkups, dietary adjustments, and preventative measures are all part of dental bridge care. You can keep your dental bridge looking good, working properly, and lasting a long time if you follow the dos and don’ts listed in this article. If you want customized recommendations for treatment based on your unique situation and needs, make an appointment with your dentist.
