How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene with Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are a long-lasting and reliable way to replace multiple missing teeth, but like natural teeth, dental bridges require proper care to function well and help them stay looking their best. Without consistent oral hygiene, food particles and bacteria can collect around and underneath the bridge, increasing the risk of gum disease, decay, and other complications.

At Junée F. Gardy DDS, PA, in Naples, FL, Dr. Junée F. Gardy and our team work closely with patients to protect their investment in dental restorations by offering personalized recommendations for daily care, including instructions for cleaning around and under their dental bridge. If you have a dental bridge or are considering one, here's what to know about keeping it clean and maintaining a healthy smile over the long term.

Why is cleaning around a dental bridge important?

A dental bridge fills the gap left by a missing tooth using one or more artificial teeth anchored by crowns on adjacent natural teeth. Because the replacement tooth (or teeth) is not rooted in the gums, food and bacteria can easily become trapped underneath the bridge. If not properly cleaned, this can lead to plaque buildup, bad breath, inflammation, and eventually gum recession or decay in the supporting teeth. Cleaning around a dental bridge daily not only protects oral health but also helps your bridge last longer and maintain its natural-looking appearance.

What's the best way to clean under a dental bridge?

While brushing and flossing are still important, cleaning a dental bridge requires a few extra steps to target the hard-to-reach areas underneath the artificial tooth. Dr. Gardy typically recommends the following bridge cleaning techniques and tools to keep your bridge clean and gums healthy:

• Use a floss threader or super floss
• Try an interdental brush or soft pick
• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash
• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Schedule regular cleanings and exams

These tools are designed to gently remove food particles and plaque from under and around the bridge without irritating the gums or damaging the structure.

What happens if you don't clean a dental bridge properly?

Neglecting to care for your bridge can lead to a number of unwanted problems, including:

• Bad breath and a sour taste
• Inflamed or bleeding gums
• Decay in the supporting teeth
• Loosening of the bridge
• Gum recession over time

In severe cases, an improperly maintained bridge may need to be replaced earlier than expected, making daily cleaning and professional care essential for keeping your bridge intact and your mouth healthy.

When should a dental bridge be replaced?

Even with excellent care, dental bridges do not last indefinitely. Most bridges last around ten years, but this can vary based on materials, location, and hygiene habits. You may need to replace a dental bridge sooner if you experience loosening of your bridge, chips or cracks, and other complications. If these issues arise, Dr. Gardy will perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether repairs or a replacement are needed. To avoid the need to replace a bridge sooner than expected, be sure to follow the daily bridge care and hygiene tips above.

Keep your smile looking its best with restoration dentistry, including dental bridges, in Naples, FL

With the right approach, your dental bridge can provide years of comfort and confidence. At Junée F. Gardy DDS, PA, we're committed to helping you maintain excellent oral hygiene and keep your bridge in great shape for as long as possible. If you have questions about cleaning your bridge or think it might be time for a replacement, contact us today to schedule a visit with Dr. Junée F. Gardy.