A dental bridge can restore your smile, help you chew better, and keep nearby teeth from shifting. Many people with Dental Bridges in Peterborough ask the same question: How can I make my bridge last as long as possible?
With the right daily care and regular dental visits, a bridge can stay strong and comfortable for many years. This guide explains simple steps you can follow every day to protect your dental bridge and your oral health.
What Is a Dental Bridge and Why Does Care Matter?
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It is held in place by the teeth next to the gap. While the bridge itself cannot get cavities, a dentist in Peterborough will remind you that the supporting teeth and gums still need proper care.
If plaque builds up around the bridge, it can cause gum problems or damage the nearby teeth. It can reduce how long the bridge lasts and may lead to repairs or replacement sooner than expected.
How Should You Clean Your Dental Bridge Daily?
Cleaning a dental bridge takes a little more time than cleaning natural teeth, but it is easy once it becomes a habit.
Daily cleaning tips:
- Brush twice a day using a soft toothbrush
- Clean all sides of the bridge, including the gum line
- Use floss designed for bridges or a floss threader
- Rinse with plain water after meals to remove food bits
These steps help keep gums healthy and prevent plaque from settling under the bridge.
What Tools Can Help Keep a Dental Bridge Clean?
Some tools make cleaning around a bridge easier, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Helpful tools include:
|
Tool |
How It Helps |
|
Floss threader |
Slides floss under the bridge |
|
Interdental brush |
Cleans small spaces near the gums |
|
Water flosser |
Flushes out food and plaque |
|
Soft toothbrush |
Protects gums and bridge edges |
Using the right tools can improve comfort and reduce the risk of gum irritation.
What Foods Should You Eat or Avoid With a Dental Bridge?
Your food choices play a big role in keeping your bridge stable.
Foods to enjoy:
- Soft fruits and cooked vegetables
- Rice, pasta, and eggs
- Yogurt and cheese
Foods to limit:
- Sticky candies and gum
- Hard nuts and ice
- Very chewy foods
Chewing hard or sticky foods can loosen a bridge or damage the supporting teeth over time.
Why are Regular Dental Visits Important?
Even with good home care, regular checkups are important. A Dentist near you can check how well your bridge fits and spot early signs of gum issues.
During visits, the dental team may:
- Check the bridge for movement
- Clean around hard-to-reach areas
- Review your cleaning routine
Seeing a dentist on a regular schedule helps keep both your bridge and natural teeth healthy.
What Habits Can Shorten the Life of a Dental Bridge?
Some daily habits can quietly damage your dental bridge without you noticing.
Habits to avoid:
- Chewing on pens or fingernails
- Using teeth to open packages
- Grinding or clenching teeth
If you grind your teeth at night, a dental guard may help protect your bridge from extra pressure.
How Do You Know If Your Dental Bridge Needs Attention?
Pay attention to changes in how your bridge feels.
Signs to watch for:
- Pain or soreness near the bridge
- Bleeding gums around the area
- A loose or uneven feeling when biting
If you notice any of these, contact a provider offering Dental Bridges near you as soon as possible. Early care can prevent bigger issues.
Can Good Care Really Help a Dental Bridge Last 15 Years?
Yes. Many bridges last well beyond a decade when cared for properly. Daily cleaning, mindful eating, and routine checkups all work together to extend the dental bridge lifespan. Small habits done every day can make a big difference over time.
Keep Your Smile Strong With Lotus Family Dental
At Lotus Family Dental, your comfort and oral health matter every step of the way. Whether you have a bridge or are thinking about one, the team is ready to support you with simple guidance and caring attention. Schedule your visit today and move forward with a smile you can trust.
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