Your dental bridge is designed and placed to fit snugly in your mouth, with no gaps between your bridgework and gums. However, regardless of how perfect the fit is, there are still microscopic gaps between the crowns and your jawbone ridge where plaque and bacteria can hide. Neglecting to clean thoroughly under your dental bridge can lead to bad breath and tooth decay on the teeth supporting the bridge. Remember, your actions matter.
Effective Cleaning Tips
Brushing and flossing twice daily is not just a routine; it’s your power to maintain good oral hygiene and the longevity of your bridge. Use a soft bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent excessive wear on the crowns. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when cleaning your dental bridge:
- Dental picks are specially designed tools that resemble toothpicks but are made with rubber tips. They are gentler on the gums and can reach into tiny crevices to dislodge food particles trapped in your dental bridge.
- A water pick is another helpful tool for removing food debris from between and underneath crowns. It is sometimes called a water flosser and can be used as an alternative to traditional dental floss.
- If you prefer using dental floss, thread it under the artificial tooth or crown (supported over your jawbone ridge) and floss beneath it. If you have difficulty threading the floss underneath, look for a floss threader at your local drugstore or order one online. This tool makes threading the floss underneath the crown easier so you can floss adequately.
- Interproximal brushes are small, pointed brushes resembling bottle brushes that taper to a point at one end. You use the pointed end to gently brush back and forth beneath the bridge. Interproximal brushes come in several sizes, so ask us which is best for you. You can find disposable brushes at your local drugstore or online.
- Rinse your mouth daily with an antibacterial rinse, such as a mouthwash containing chlorhexidine, to wash away bacteria, food debris, and plaque loosened by brushing and flossing. This can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay and keep your breath fresh.
Daily oral hygiene is crucial to cleaning under your dental bridge, but regular dental cleanings are also essential. We recommend seeing your dentist or periodontist twice yearly to have all your teeth and your dental bridge professionally cleaned. At these appointments, your doctor can also examine your bridge to ensure it still fits properly and does not show signs of any damage.