Do you have a dental bridge that fills in the gaps in your smile? Bridges are fantastic dental appliances that can help patients achieve and maintain a full, natural-looking smile. Just like other dental appliances, bridges need to be cleaned and maintained to keep them in tip-top shape. Here are some tips for keeping your bridge in great repair.
Clean Your Dental Bridge
Cleaning your bridge is an important part of keeping the appliance strong. To clean your bridge, start by rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash. This step will help loosen any food debris or bacteria. After you rinse your mouth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and your toothpaste to brush your dental bridge. With a fixed bridge, don’t forget to brush thoroughly at the gumline around your bridge. You can also use traditional floss or a water flosser to get the crevices between your teeth and around your bridge.
Get Regular Dental Checkups & Bridge Exams
According to the American Dental Association, you should get a dental checkup every six months. During your checkups, a hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth to remove any plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth and where your bridge sits. Regular dental checkups also allow your dentist to check your dental bridge to ensure it isn’t damaged or worn down. If your bridge needs a little maintenance, your twice-yearly dental visits are a great time to do some work on your bridge before small issues turn into more costly fixes.
Trusted Dental Care in Puyallup, WA
Overdue for your next dental checkup? At Willow Smiles Dentistry, we provide a full range of services, including dental bridges and maintenance. Our skilled, experienced dental team can help you with all of your smile needs. We’d love to be your dental home. Please contact us to schedule an appointment!