A dental bridge is a popular solution for replacing missing teeth, especially one or more missing teeth in a row. They consist of artificial teeth which a dentist attaches to neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. As a restorative dentistry treatment, teeth bridges are a long-term investment in your oral health.
Replacing missing teeth is key to maintaining good oral and systemic health for life. So, if you’re living with tooth loss, then it’s time to restore your smile at Austin Laser Dentist. Patients can request appointments with Dr. Helen Ragsdale in Austin, TX, by calling (512) 346-4690 now!
It is important to take proper care of oral prosthetics to ensure they last as long as possible. In this blog post, we discuss how to increase the lifespan of a dental bridge to save you valuable time and money.
Always Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Practicing good oral hygiene is the most important step in maintaining the lifespan of a dental bridge. Be sure to:
- -Floss your teeth and under the bridge at least once a day
- -Brush at least twice a day
- -Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- -Limit sugary and acidic treats
Our Austin dentist recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and bridge. Also, patients consider using an interdental brush or water flosser to clean around the bridge.
Avoid Overly Hard or Sticky Foods
Hard and sticky foods can damage a dental bridge or cause it to become loose. Hard foods that can crack or damage a bridge may include:
- -Hard candy
- -Popcorn kernels
- -Nuts
But, hard foods aren’t the only foods to avoid. Patients should also avoid very sticky foods, such as:
- -Caramel
- -Taffy
- -Chewing gum
Instead of these foods, we recommend choosing softer, healthier foods that are easier on your teeth and bridge, such as:
- -Lean proteins
- -Cooked vegetables
- -Fresh fruits
- -Dairy products
- -Cooked legumes
Choose Dental Bridge Cleaning Products Wisely
While it is important to clean your dental bridge, be cautious with the cleaning products that you use. For example, patients should avoid abrasive toothpastes or cleaning agents, which can scratch or damage the bridge. Instead, patients should use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the bridge.
Don’t Use Tobacco Products
Tobacco products can have a negative impact on your oral health and the lifespan of a dental bridge. We recommend quitting all tobacco products (including smokeless), even if you don’t have a dental prosthetic.
Protect Your Teeth and Dental Bridge with a Mouthguard
If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your dental bridge. Custom-fitted mouthguards fit snugly over the teeth and prosthetic, which protects them from injury and bruxism.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Frequent visits to your dentist are a great way to avoid dental issues. These visits also help keep dental prosthetics in optimal working order. We recommend visiting your dentist at least two times a year to get the most out of your dental bridge.
Ask Us If a Dental Bridge Is Right For You
A dental bridge is a long-term investment in your oral and overall health. If you want your appliance to last for 10 years or longer, then regular dental appointments are key. Schedule an appointment at Austin Laser Dentist in Austin, TX, by submitting a request here or by dialing (512) 346-4690 now!
