A dental bridge could restore your smile, make chewing easier, and help keep your other teeth from shifting out of place. While the bridge itself doesn’t decay, the teeth supporting it certainly can. That’s why a good daily cleaning routine is so important. With the right care, your dental bridge can last for many years. Without it, you risk decay, gum disease, and even the need to replace the bridge sooner than expected.
At Cavanaugh Dental in Lansing, we’ve been helping patients protect their smiles for over 30 years. Whether you’re in Holt, Dimondale, or Mason, we want to make sure you feel confident caring for your new restoration.
The Challenge: Cleaning Underneath Your Bridge
A traditional dental bridge is made up of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) held in place by crowns on the teeth next to the gap. The tricky part is that there’s a small space underneath the false tooth where plaque and food particles can get trapped.
If you don’t clean that area, bacteria can build up. This can lead to gum inflammation, bad breath, and, most importantly, decay in the teeth that are holding the bridge in place. Since those supporting teeth are the foundation of your bridge, keeping them healthy is essential.
Cleaning a bridge doesn’t have to be complicated. You just need the right tools and a little practice.
Brush Like You Mean It (But Gently)
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the bridge and the teeth around it. A gentle, thorough brushing removes plaque from the surfaces and sides of your bridge just like you would with natural teeth.
Floss, With a Twist
Regular floss won’t cut it for cleaning under a bridge. You’ll need a few specialty tools to get the job done:
- Floss Threader: This stiff plastic needle helps you pull a piece of floss under the bridge, so you can clean along the gumline.
- Super Floss: This floss has a stiff, threader-like end and a fluffy, spongy middle section designed to clean under the bridge and around the supporting teeth.
- Interdental Brushes: These tiny, brush-tipped tools are perfect for cleaning around the bridge and in spaces that are harder to reach.
The goal is to clean the area where the bridge meets the gumline and around the natural teeth that anchor it.
Rinse for Extra Protection
Using an antimicrobial or antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacterial growth and prevent gum disease around your bridge. It’s a simple step that adds an extra layer of protection.
Beyond Your Daily Routine
Taking care of your bridge at home is only part of the story. Regular visits to our Lansing office are just as important.
At your checkups, we can professionally clean your bridge, check for any signs of problems, and make sure everything is fitting properly. These visits allow us to catch small issues before they become big ones, which helps extend the life of your bridge.
You should also be mindful of your diet. Try to avoid sticky, hard, or excessively sugary foods that can damage your bridge or contribute to decay. And never use your teeth, or your bridge, to open packages or chew on hard objects like ice.
A Smile That Lasts
Your dental bridge was an investment in your health and confidence. With a little extra care, it can serve you well for many years to come. Our experienced team at Cavanaugh Dental is here to support you every step of the way.
If you have any questions about cleaning your bridge, or if it’s time for your regular checkup, give us a call at (517) 760-6845. We’re proud to serve Lansing and surrounding communities, and we’d love to help you keep your smile healthy and strong.