Dental bridges are a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution to replace missing teeth. While bridges restore function and beauty to your smile, one of the most common challenges patients experience is managing food particles that get trapped around or beneath the bridge.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we believe that proper care of your dental bridge ensures it lasts for many years while maintaining excellent oral health. This blog explains how to effectively manage food particles with new dental bridges, along with daily care tips to keep your smile fresh and healthy.
Why Food Gets Trapped Around Dental Bridges
Gaps beneath the pontic (false tooth): Designed for a natural look, but spaces can allow food to collect.
Adjacent natural teeth: Small spaces around abutment teeth may attract debris.
Bridge design: Some bridges sit slightly above the gum to make cleaning easier but can allow food to slide underneath.
Is This Normal?
Yes. Its common to notice food collecting around a bridge more than natural teeth. Proper oral hygiene techniques help manage this issue effectively and prevent complications like bad breath, gum disease, or decay in supporting teeth.
How to Manage Food Particles with a Dental Bridge
?? Floss Daily (Under the Bridge)
Use:
Floss threaders: Helps guide floss under the pontic.
Super floss: Contains stiff ends for easy insertion and a spongy center for thorough cleaning.
Clean beneath the bridge and around abutment teeth to remove trapped food and bacteria.
?? Use a Water Flosser (Oral Irrigator)
Water flossers are highly effective at flushing out food particles from under the bridge.
Aim the water stream at the gumline and beneath the pontic for thorough cleaning.
?? Interdental Brushes
Small brushes designed to clean between teeth and under dental work.
Especially helpful if the space beneath the bridge is slightly larger.
?? Rinse After Meals
Swish with water or an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash after eating to dislodge particles.
Diet Tips to Minimize Trapped Food
Cut chewy or fibrous foods (like meats or raw veggies) into smaller pieces.
Avoid very sticky foods like caramel and chewing gum.
Be mindful of foods like popcorn, seeds, and nuts, which can easily lodge under the bridge.
How to Brush a Dental Bridge Properly
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush.
Focus on:
Cleaning around the abutment teeth (supporting teeth).
Brushing the top, sides, and gumline carefully.
Spend extra time brushing near the gumline where food tends to settle.
Signs of Inadequate Cleaning
Persistent bad breath or bad taste.
Gum redness or swelling around the bridge.
Food consistently feels stuck beneath the pontic.
Tartar buildup near the bridge edges.
If these occur, schedule a checkup at McLevin Dental for a professional cleaning and guidance.
Professional Maintenance
Schedule professional cleanings at McLevin Dental every 6 months, or more frequently if recommended.
Our hygienists use specialized tools to clean around and beneath your bridge thoroughly.
Long-Term Tips for Bridge Longevity
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss beneath the bridge daily.
Use water flossers or interdental brushes as part of your routine.
Avoid chewing very hard items (ice, pens, hard candies) to protect the bridge structure.
Visit McLevin Dental regularly for monitoring and maintenance.
Trust McLevin Dental for Complete Bridge Care
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we provide comprehensive guidance for caring for dental bridges. Our goal is to help you enjoy a functional, beautiful smile while preventing issues like food trapping, gum disease, or decay in supporting teeth.
If you have concerns about cleaning your bridge, managing trapped food, or need professional care, reach out to our friendly team. We are here to help keep your dental work and your smile in perfect condition.