Dental bridges are a reliable, long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring function, and enhancing your smile. While bridges are durable, they require consistent care to stay clean, functional, and free from complications like gum disease or decay around the supporting teeth.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we educate our patients about maintaining their bridges for years of healthy smiles. This guide outlines the proper cleaning techniques for dental bridges, ensuring you protect your investment and maintain excellent oral health.
Why Cleaning Dental Bridges Is Crucial
Unlike natural teeth, food particles and plaque can easily accumulate under and around a bridge, especially under the artificial tooth (pontic). Poor cleaning can lead to:
Gum disease
Tooth decay in supporting teeth (abutments)
Bad breath
Bridge failure due to weakened supporting teeth
Daily Cleaning Techniques for Dental Bridges
1. Brush Twice Daily with a Soft Toothbrush
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Focus on the gumline and surfaces around the bridge, using gentle circular motions.
Consider an electric toothbrush for more effective cleaning.
2. Floss Under the Bridge Daily
Standard floss wont easily pass under a bridge; instead, use:
Floss threaders: A simple tool that helps guide floss underneath the bridge.
Super floss: Pre-cut floss with stiff ends, spongy middle, and regular floss segments for cleaning under the pontic and between teeth.
Interdental brushes: Small, soft brushes that clean between the bridge and gums.
3. Use a Water Flosser for Added Cleaning
A water flosser (like Waterpik) flushes out food debris and plaque from under the bridge and between teeth.
Use it alongside regular flossing, not as a full replacement.
4. Rinse with Antibacterial Mouthwash
Use an alcohol-free antibacterial rinse to reduce bacteria around the bridge and gums.
A fluoride rinse can further protect the abutment teeth from decay.
Areas That Need Special Attention
Under the bridge pontic: Where food often gets trapped.
Around the gumline of abutment teeth: To prevent gum inflammation and decay.
Between natural teeth and bridge units: Plaque tends to build in tight spaces.
What to Avoid
Hard foods: Ice, nuts, and hard candies can damage bridges.
Sticky foods: Chewing gum and sticky candies can pull on the bridge structure.
Neglecting flossing: Skipping cleaning under the bridge dramatically increases the risk of decay or gum disease.
Signs Your Bridge Needs Attention
Bad breath that doesnt improve after brushing
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums near the bridge
Loose or shifting bridge
Sensitivity or discomfort around abutment teeth
Food frequently getting stuck underneath
If you notice these, contact McLevin Dental immediately for an evaluation.
Professional Maintenance Matters
Schedule regular cleanings and exams at McLevin Dental in Scarborough every 6 months, or more frequently if recommended.
Our hygienists use specialized tools to clean under and around bridges more thoroughly than home care alone.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
With proper cleaning and regular dental care, bridges typically last 1015 years or longer.
Neglecting hygiene can significantly shorten the lifespan of a bridge.
Long-Term Bridge Care Tips
Maintain a diet low in sugary, sticky foods to protect supporting teeth.
Consider a nightguard if you grind your teeth, which helps protect the bridge.
Stay consistent with daily brushing, flossing, and water flossing.
Never skip your routine check-ups with McLevin Dental.
Trust McLevin Dental for Lasting Bridge Care
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, were committed to helping you maintain your dental bridge, ensuring it functions beautifully and lasts for years. Our team provides tailored advice and professional cleanings to protect your bridge and overall oral health.
If you have questions about bridge care or notice any issues, contact our experienced dental team today. Were here to keep your smile strong, functional, and healthy.