Are you planning for a dental bridge procedure at your local dentist? Or, have you recently had a tooth extracted, and you are looking to get bridges to boost your oral health? Either way, you have come here because you are invested in a happy and healthy smile. Dental bridges can offer you the perfect peace of mind, literally bridging gaps between areas of missing teeth. This can help you retain your chewing and speaking abilities while strengthening the muscles that guide your jawbone. Below, we cover how to clean your dental bridges.
How to Clean Your Dental Bridges
If you are new to this procedure, you might be wondering how to clean your dental bridges properly. Your dentist should provide you with all of the information you need, but we always encourage you to ask questions if you get lost on your own. Today, we have compiled a list of our best aftercare instructions as well as some quick tips that can help you feel more secure as you plan for your personalized treatment.
Keeping Your Bridges Clean at Home
One of the most difficult parts of dealing with dental bridges is having to maintain them at home. Many of our patients express feeling some discomfort or tightness in their mouths after they have just had bridges put in. It might be too difficult to eat hard or crunchy foods. While you get used to this new sensation, you can practice self-care by switching to a softer diet. Comforting, warm foods are the best for new bridges. You should stock up on items such as yogurt, pudding, and rice while avoiding things like ice and raw vegetables.
Of course, the biggest part of bridges aftercare is cleaning. You should brush and scrub your bridges at least once per day, just as you would with your regular teeth. However, not all toothpaste or toothbrushes are suitable. Follow these steps to ensure you clean your dental implants properly:
- Opt for a non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Use a gentle floss approved for bridges and crowns.
- Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every few months.
- If possible, invest in a water flosser or a Waterpik.
If you need additional guidance on cleaning your implants daily, contact one of our friendly Fontana experts right away. We can provide you with the right instructions for staying healthy and prolonging the quality of your bridges for many years to come.
Staying Healthy for Years to Come
For a few days after the procedure, you’ll want to avoid chewing anything that is excessively hot or cold. Some types of foods may be too difficult to eat as well. You should avoid chewing things like ice and gum on the crown area if possible, as this could damage the implant. If you notice that your bite feels off, or you are unable to bite down all the way on your crown, contact your dental bridge specialist right away to have the process fixed.
Make sure to continue brushing and flossing just as you would as part of your daily oral hygiene habits. Although the crown is made of porcelain, it is still just as easily subject to decay and disrepair as natural teeth are. Therefore, you wouldn’t want to do anything to your crown that you wouldn’t do to your other teeth.
Schedule a Dental Bridges Consultation Today!
If you are in need of a dental bridge, you can visit our friendly cosmetic dentist team right away. Bridges are an essential treatment for the restoration of full strength and functionality after losing your natural teeth. You can bridge together one or more areas of the mouth for cohesive healing that looks great at all stages of recovery. You deserve to look and feel your best. Get in touch with us today to learn more!