Tips for Dental Bridge Aftercare
Tooth loss can occur from any number of reasons: tooth decay, injury, disease, or extraction. No matter the cause, the result is still the same: a gaping space left behind where a beautiful tooth once was. If you are looking for an affordable and effective solution for replacing a missing tooth, our doctors offer custom-made dental bridges at Clint Newman, DDS in Nashville, TN.
Dental bridges can be used to replace more than one missing tooth in an isolated location of your mouth. This restorative prosthetic is supported by nearby teeth on each side of the absent tooth or with two dental implants. The type of bridge will depend on your budget, how fast you want results, and the health of your jawbone.
Your doctor will explain the treatment with you during the initial consultation and answer any questions or concerns to provide clarity, as well as manage your expectations. Properly caring for your dental bridge is key to a lasting and beautiful smile. Below are some tips for dental bridge aftercare to help you achieve a positive outcome.
Implement a Good Oral Hygiene Regimen
Good oral hygiene is extremely important to preserve your remaining natural teeth, gums, and dental bridge. Your oral hygiene regimen should include brushing your teeth at least twice a day. We recommend using a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush to avoid over brushing. Flossing daily will also help prevent food and plaque buildup from occurring beneath the bridge and in between your teeth. Your doctor will provide you with a special flossing device that can be used to easily navigate around your dental bridge.
Avoid Certain Foods and Beverages
Although a dental bridge is made from durable materials, it is not indestructible. In addition to maintaining good oral hygiene and a healthy diet, you will need to be careful with the foods and beverages you consume. Foods to minimize or avoid all together include anything:
- Chewy or sticky, such as taffy, caramel, and dried fruits
- Hard-to-chew foods, such as popcorn, hard candies, ice, raw vegetables, and tough meat
- Dark-colored foods, such as coffee, red wine, black tea, and berries
- Overly hot or cold foods and beverages, as they can cause dental sensitivity
- Sugary or starchy foods, as they can get stuck easily and lead to decay
Attend Your Dental Visits
Another key factor to protecting your dental bridge is visiting the dentist every six months for routine cleanings and examinations. At these appointments your doctor will be able to remove any plaque buildup and locate the early signs of problems, such as decay, teeth grinding, malocclusion, (bite disorders), or damage to the bridge. He will also be able to reinforce a bridge that has become loose or dislodged.
A dental bridge needs consistent care and attention, even more so than your natural teeth. Patients who are committed to dental bridge aftercare are able to achieve lasting results and better oral health.
Contact Us
If you are interested in replacing a missing tooth with a dental bridge, schedule a consultation with Dr. Clint Newman or Dr. Thomas Underwood today to discuss your options. You can simply fill out our online form or call 615-866-4258. A dental bridge provides many great benefits, including restored dental function, seamless aesthetics, and boosted self-confidence so you can smile freely.
