Did you just undergo a dental bridge procedure? Here’s what you need to know about aftercare.

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, an organization of dentists specializing in dentures, crowns, and dental implants, some 120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several solutions to fill the gap. One of the most popular is a dental bridge.

Unlike removable dentures, dental bridges are permanently fixed to adjacent teeth. The prosthetic tooth used in the bridge is known as a pontic. Typically made of porcelain, the pontic will match the shape and color of your natural teeth so that it won’t be noticeable. If you’re considering a dental bridge or have just had a procedure done, read on to learn about post-procedure oral care tips.

What is a dental bridge?

As the name implies, a dental bridge bridges the gap between missing teeth. But more than that, it maintains your oral health. Without a bridge, the teeth next to the missing tooth may shift out of position, causing your jaw to change shape. A bridge also allows you to eat and speak normally. And if you’re missing a front tooth, you can restore your smile with a bridge so you won’t be self-conscious about the gap.

Your dentist will examine your teeth and suggest one of four types of dental bridges:

Traditional. The most popular type, a traditional dental bridge is secured to crowns on the abutment teeth, or the natural teeth on each side of the missing tooth. To get a traditional dental bridge, you must have healthy teeth next to the gap left by the missing tooth.

Cantilever. If you only have one natural tooth next to the gap, a cantilever bridge will work by attaching a crown to that healthy tooth.

Maryland. Instead of crowns on the abutment teeth, a Maryland dental bridge uses metal or porcelain to secure the bridge to the backs of the healthy teeth. This type is recommended for missing front teeth. 

Implant-supported bridges. Instead of crowns, the bridge is held in place by dental implants on the sides of the missing tooth. The most secure option, implant-supported bridges will require several months of preparation before the bridge is placed.

The do’s and don’ts of caring for your dental bridge

Your dental bridge will take a bit of getting used to when you first get the appliance placed. But with time, you won’t notice it anymore. Minor swelling after the procedure should also soon diminish. If discomfort persists, talk to your dentist about an adjustment. 

Dental bridges typically last between five to 15 years. To keep your bridge and your teeth in good condition, follow these tips:

Do brush twice daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. You’ll keep the bridge secure by preventing decay in the teeth surrounding the bridge.

Don’t eat sweets. Sugary and acidic foods can damage your healthy teeth, which could cause complications with your bridge.

Do floss each day. Floss is vital in your oral care routine, so don’t neglect it! You might want to buy proxabrush to clean under the bridge. Available in drugstores, a proxabrush has a thin handle with bristles at the top. 

Don’t eat hard, sticky foods. Limit your intake of caramels, popcorn, nuts, and hard candies that could dislodge the bridge.

Do rinse with mouthwash. An antiseptic mouth rinse is the best kind.

Don’t use tobacco products. Cigarettes can stain your natural teeth, making the pontic more noticeable.

Do schedule regular dental checkups. Those twice-yearly visits can spot any decay or problems with your bridge. 

Espire Dental is here for all your dental needs

Schedule an appointment at Espire’s Mission Valley location today! Our highly trained dentists are experts in restoring missing teeth with various solutions, including bridges. Don’t live near our Mission Valley, CA, office? Find one of our other locations near you.

Mission Valley, CA
8989 Rio San Diego Drive
Suite 170
San Diego, CA 92108