After finally deciding to replace your lost tooth with a fixed dental bridge, you are left with the question: how do you care for your new dental restoration? Getting a new, healthy smile can be a little overwhelming and a big confidence booster. If you want to preserve the new smile and keep your teeth looking attractive for a long time, you need to learn the correct ways to care for your dental bridge.
With proper care, a fixed dental bridge can survive for ten years or more. The biggest threat to your new dental bridge is tooth decay, which is mostly caused when food debris gets stuck between your teeth or beneath the prosthetic tooth. If tooth decay occurs, the natural teeth holding the dental bridge on either side may falter and cause the bridge to fail. The following are ways to care for your fixed dental bridge and increase its lifespan.
Dental bridges and crowns are manufactured from ceramic, which is sturdy and durable, but like healthy teeth, they may break or fracture if subjected to undue force or pressure. Avoid bad habits like chewing ice or opening bottles or packages with your teeth. These acts can place your dental bridge at risk of damage.
You may think the fixed dental bridge is a prosthetic and requires no care, but this is wrong. You should take time to brush your dental restoration daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush to prevent possible accumulation of plaque and tartar on your teeth.
Flossing is a crucial aspect of your oral care regimen, and you need to clean the spaces between the teeth and your gums properly to prevent plaque build-up or gum disease. Ensure you floss daily, especially after meals and before bedtime, making sure there are no particles left in your teeth.
Although the purpose of getting the dental bridge is to get back the function and strength of the tooth crown above the gum line, you should take adequate care to ensure the gum line is in an optimal state. This is to prevent bacteria or plaque accumulation in this area. Brushing and flossing will help, but using a fluoride dental rinse will further fortify your dentition against tooth decay. This is especially recommended for people who are at higher risk of cavities or gum disease.
In the first few days of getting your dental bridge, you may notice minor sensitivity to hot or cold food or drinks. You can consult your dentist to get recommendations for products that may help lessen this symptom. Aside from your regular home care, you need to keep up with your bi-annual dental appointments for cleanings and exams. During your appointment, the dentist will check if your fixed dental bridges are correctly fitted and in good condition. With proper care, you should not need another dental bridge in years.
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