A dental bridge is a great way to replace a missing tooth. This fixed restoration will help you to have a strong, aesthetically pleasing bite that will last for many years.
In order to ensure that you get the most out of your new dental bridge, good oral hygiene is essential. Knowing exactly what a bridge is and how it fits in your mouth will help you better understand how to clean it properly. It may surprise you to learn about the extra care this unique restoration needs.
What Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a permanent restoration that’s used to replace a missing tooth. It incorporates the use of the teeth adjacent to a space, to help close in the gap.
To prepare your bite for a bridge, our Mesa, Arizona dentist will need to reduce the thickness of your neighboring teeth (which are used for support.) The bridge is made from a strong, tooth colored ceramic. Your customized bridge will have three artificial teeth that are bonded together. The ones on each end will be hollowed out and used to slide over your supporting teeth. The middle tooth between them (called a pontic) is completely solid and suspends over your gums.
Your ceramic restoration is permanently cemented to your supporting teeth, similar to a crown.
Cleaning Your Dental Bridge
Since you have natural teeth under your bridge, tooth decay is still a concern. Here are some tips to ensure you get the most out of your restoration.
Brushing Your Bridge
Either use a soft bristled toothbrush or an electric one. Tilt the bristles at a 45-degree angle to ensure that they’re cleaning right along the gumline where the edge of the bridge meets your natural tooth.
Avoid brushing too hard, as this pressure can cause gum recession and lead to sensitivity or discoloration in that area.
How To Floss Your Dental Bridge
When you have a dental bridge it’s highly recommended that you invest in a water flosser. This device will not only help prolong the life of your supporting teeth, it will make your life a whole lot easier!
A water flosser is a handheld device that prevents you from having to maneuver traditional floss under your bridge, which can be quite tedious at times. All you have to do is aim the head of the water flosser towards the area you want to clean to apply a strong burst of water. The stream will flush away loose debris between your teeth and under bridge work.
Professional Cleanings
While the tools that you have at home are efficient, they aren’t capable of removing all plaque and tartar buildup from every nook and cranny in your mouth. When you visit the dentist (ideally every six months) for a professional cleaning, our hygienist will use special instruments to clean these hard to reach areas. Regular cleanings reduce your chances of overlooking potential issues with any dental work you already have.
Dental Bridges in Phoenix, AZ
Whether you need a bridge or any another type of dental treatment, Central Valley Dentistry has your back. Our comprehensive family services are designed to keep your smile functional and beautiful for life!
