Maintaining Oral Health With a Dental Bridge

Dental bridges are a great way to replace missing teeth. They bring back both function and appearance to your smile. Taking care of your dental bridge is essential to keep it working well and protect your overall oral health. With the right care, a dental bridge can last a long time and keep your mouth in great shape.

Why Dental Bridges Matter

Dental bridges do more than just fill the gap left by a missing tooth. They play a big role in keeping your oral health on track. When you have a gap, the teeth next to it can start to shift into that space.

This movement can throw off your bite and cause alignment issues. These issues can lead to jaw pain or even recurring headaches. A dental bridge keeps your teeth in place and avoid these issues.

Beyond keeping your teeth aligned, bridges also support the natural shape of your face. Missing teeth can make your face look sunken and age your look. By filling the gap, bridges help maintain your facial structure and prevent sagging.

Having all your teeth in place also makes it easier to chew your food and speak clearly. Missing teeth can make eating and talking more challenging. But a dental bridge restores these important functions so you can enjoy your daily life without worry.

You will have all the benefits a bridge has to offer by taking care of your overall oral health. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups will help your bridge stay in great condition while keeping your smile healthy and strong.

Daily Care for Your Dental Bridge

Keeping your dental bridge in great shape starts with good daily habits. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to focus on the area around the bridge since plaque and food bits tend to gather there.

Flossing is just as important. Use floss daily to clean between your teeth and under the bridge. A floss threader or water flosser can make it easier to get into those tricky spots regular floss can’t reach. You might also want to add an antibacterial mouthwash to your routine to fight plaque and keep your breath fresh.

Eating Smart for Your Bridge

What you eat can make a big difference in how well your bridge holds up. Try to avoid hard and sticky foods like popcorn, nuts, hard candy, caramel, and gummies. They can damage or loosen the bridge. If you’re eating hard fruits or veggies, cut them into smaller pieces and chew with your back teeth to avoid stressing the bridge.

Also avoid chewing ice, because it can crack your teeth and bridge. And while sugary treats are tempting, limiting them can help prevent decay and gum issues. Instead, focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, veggies, and lean proteins to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Don’t Skip Your Dental Visits

Seeing your dentist regularly is key to keeping your bridge in the best condition. Aim for at least two check-ups a year. During these visits, Dr. Lazer will make sure the bridge is working as it should and catch any potential issues early.

Professional cleanings during your appointment are also important. They’ll remove tartar and plaque that brushing and flossing might miss. Plus, our dentist can adjust your bridge if it feels off or begins to fit differently over time.

Spotting Problems Early

Keep an eye on your bridge for signs that something’s not quite right. Watch for cracks, chips, or looseness, and pay attention to any gum irritation, redness, or swelling near the bridge. If you notice discomfort or issues while chewing, don’t wait to reach out to our dentist. Catching problems early can save you from bigger headaches later.