Essential Dental Bridge Maintenance Tips in Fort Erie & Ridgeway, ON

Dental bridges are a fantastic way to restore your smile and enhance your oral health. However, like any dental restoration, they require proper care to ensure they last. Our dentists in Fort Erie and Ridgeway want to help you keep your dental bridge in great shape, so here’s a guide on how to care for it.

To speak with our Ontario dentist about dental bridge maintenance, contact our Fort Erie dental office at 905-871-2903 or our Ridgeway dental office at 905-894-5555. We’ll make sure you get the answers and care you need!

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

To uphold your dental bridge care and maintain good oral health effectively, keep these key tips in mind:

• Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, focusing on the areas around and under your dental bridge to prevent plaque buildup and keep your teeth and gums healthy. Use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean between your teeth, and consider a floss threader specifically designed for bridges to effectively reach under the prosthetic. Make sure to ease the floss gently around the bridge to prevent any bleeding.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular visits with our Ontario dentists for comprehensive dental checkups and professional cleanings. These appointments are vital for early detection of any potential oral health problems, such as loose teeth or bleeding gums, ensuring your dental bridge remains in excellent condition. Visiting the dentist regularly is crucial, and avoiding it could harm the gums and teeth.
• Watch What You Eat: Be cautious with sticky or hard foods, as they can put undue stress on your bridge and lead to damage. Limit consumption of treats like hard candy, caramel, and nuts, which can not only harm the bridge but also contribute to a risk for tooth decay, tooth loss, and gum disease. If you do eat any sugary or sticky foods, make sure to brush your teeth soon afterwards.
• Use Mouthwash: Incorporate an antiseptic mouthwash into your daily routine to help reduce bacteria in your mouth, which can prevent gum disease and keep your bridge, surrounding teeth and gum line healthy.
• Protect Your Teeth: If you grind or clench your teeth, ask about a night guard. This protective device can help safeguard both your natural teeth and your dental bridge from the damaging effects of bruxism.
• Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can lead to gum disease, which weakens the support structures for your bridge. Reducing or eliminating these habits can significantly improve your oral health.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for gum and overall oral health. Foods high in calcium, vitamin C, and other nutrients support the health of the teeth and gums that hold your bridge in place. In addition, even drinking water can keep your teeth healthy.
• Check for Looseness: Regularly assess your bridge; if it feels loose or causes discomfort, contact us immediately. Don’t try to adjust or repair it yourself, as this could lead to further complications.
• Fluoride Treatment: Based on your individual cavity risk, our dentist may recommend fluoride gel or rinse. This added protection can strengthen your teeth and reduce the chance of decay around your bridge.
• Antibacterial Gel: In certain situations, our dentist or dental hygienist might suggest the use of an antibacterial gel to apply under your bridge. This can help reduce bacteria buildup and lower the risk of infection, ensuring your dental bridge remains healthy and functional.

Signs of Dental Bridge Wear and Tear

It’s important to monitor your dental bridge for signs of wear and tear. Here are some indications that your bridge may need attention:

• Loose or Shifting Bridge: If your bridge feels loose or shifts, it could indicate a problem with the cement or the supporting teeth.
• Discomfort or Pain: Sensitivity or pain when eating may signal an ill-fitting bridge or issues like decay underneath.
• Visible Damage: Look for cracks or chips in the bridge, as these can harbor bacteria and lead to complications.
• Gum Inflammation: Redness, swelling, or bleeding around the gums near the bridge may indicate gum disease or infection.

If you’re dealing with any of the issues mentioned above, contact our Ontario dental office to schedule an appointment to keep your bridge clean and your gums healthy.

Replacing Dental Bridges

Consultation

The replacement process begins with scheduling an appointment for a consultation. During this appointment, you’ll discuss any concerns you have about your existing bridge. Our dentist will conduct a thorough evaluation of your oral health and the bridge itself to determine if a replacement is necessary.

Preparation

If it’s determined that a replacement is needed, the next step involves preparing the supporting teeth or implants. This entails carefully removing the existing bridge to ensure that the new one will fit correctly and securely.

Impressions

After the old bridge is removed, impressions of your teeth and the surrounding area will be taken. These impressions are essential for creating a custom-made bridge that matches your natural teeth in both shape and color.

Temporary Bridge

While your new bridge is being fabricated, a temporary bridge may be placed. This temporary solution will protect your teeth and maintain your smile’s aesthetics during the waiting period.

Final Placement

Once the permanent bridge is ready, our dentist will ensure it fits comfortably and aligns well with your bite. The final placement process is crucial for securing or cementing the new bridge in place, allowing you to smile confidently and ensuring it functions effectively in your daily life.

Why Trust Dr. Inigo with Your Dental Bridges?

At Inigo Dentistry, we care about your dental and overall oral health before, after, and during your dental appointment. Our Fort Erie and Ridgeway dental teams, led by Dr. Inigo, are dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With a strong commitment to staying updated on the latest techniques and technologies in dentistry, he ensures that every procedure, including the placement and maintenance of dental bridges, is performed with precision and skill. 

Patients appreciate his friendly demeanor and thorough approach, which fosters an environment of comfort and trust. Our Fort Erie and Ridgeway dentists will make you feel confident that you’re receiving top-notch care in a supportive atmosphere during your dental checkup, where your oral health and satisfaction are the top priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean under my dental bridge?

It’s essential to clean under and around your dental bridge daily to prevent gum disease and decay. Specialized floss or a floss threader can help reach these areas effectively.

Can I use a regular toothbrush to clean my dental bridge?

Yes, a soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal. An electric toothbrush can also be effective in maintaining your oral hygiene.

Will my dental bridge stain if I consume coffee, tea, or red wine?

While dental bridges are more stain-resistant than natural teeth, the bonding agents may discolor over time. Rinsing or brushing after consuming staining foods or drinks can help minimize this risk.

How long can I expect my dental bridge to last?

With proper care, dental bridges can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer. Factors such as oral hygiene practices, the materials used, and regular dental checkups can significantly influence their longevity.

Can I replace my dental bridge myself if it feels loose?

It’s important not to attempt to adjust or replace your dental bridge on your own. If your bridge feels loose or uncomfortable, contact our office immediately. Our dentist will assess the situation and recommend the best course of action to ensure your dental and overall oral health is protected.

Maintain Your Beautiful Smile With Inigo Dentistry

Taking care of your dental bridge is key to maintaining your oral health and ensuring the longevity of your restoration. By speaking with Dr. Inigo and addressing any signs of wear promptly, you can avoid complications and keep your smile bright. Remember to practice good oral hygiene, visit our dental office regularly, and follow Dr. Inigo’s recommendations for optimal care.

To get started, contact one of our Ontario dental offices today. For an appointment in Fort Erie, call 905-871-2903. For Ridgeway, call 905-894-5555.