A dental bridge can do far more than fill a space – it restores balance, helps you chew comfortably again, and gives your smile a natural look. But like any dental work, a bridge won’t take care of itself. It needs regular attention to stay strong and comfortable.
At Taylorsville Implant Center, Dr. Jose Hernandez-Gil often reminds patients that “a dental bridge is like a partnership – you do your part with daily care, and it will reward you with years of reliable use.” Let’s look at the best ways to keep your bridge in excellent shape and what to avoid along the way.
Dr. Jose Hernandez-Gil says it best: “Your bridge should feel like it’s part of you. Care for it that way, and it’ll last beautifully.”
So, let’s talk about how to keep your bridge clean, what mistakes to avoid, and when it’s time to call your dentist.
A dental bridge simply fills the space left by missing teeth. It connects an artificial tooth (or a few) to the teeth or implants beside the gap, making your smile look and feel complete again.
At Taylorsville Implant Center, we typically suggest one of three bridge options, depending on your needs.
Traditional Bridge: This type is held in place with crowns on the teeth beside the missing space.
Maryland Bridge: A lighter option that’s bonded behind nearby teeth, often ideal for your front teeth.
A lot of people assume bridges don’t need much maintenance – after all, they can’t get cavities, right? That’s where anything goes wrong.
Food particles and plaques can collect around and underneath the bridge. If left alone, they can cause gum irritation, bad breath, and even decay in the teeth supporting the bridge.
Dr. Hernandez-Gil often reminds patients, “A bridge may not decay, but the teeth and gums around it can. Keeping it clean protects your entire smile.”
You don’t need complicated routines or expensive gadgets – just consistency and good technique.
1. Take It Slow When You Brush
Use a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste. Go gently around the bridge and along your gums – small circles work best. If you struggle to reach certain spots, an electric brush can make things easier. Two-minutes twice a day. Simple, but powerful.
2. Floss Underneath Every Day
This part matters the most. Food often gets stuck under the bridge, where normal floss can’t reach. A floss threader, super floss, or even a water flosser can help you clean underneath. It might feel a little strange in the beginning, but don’t worry – you’ll get used to it fast.
3. Rinse Often
Go with an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep your mouth from drying out. A quick swish after meals or before bed helps keep things fresh and cuts down on bacteria.
4. Keep Up with Dental Visits
Even if your bridge feels perfect, don’t skip your checkups. Professional cleanings remove buildup that brushing can’t, and Dr. Hernandez-Gil will make sure your bridge still fits just right.
Even with the best intentions, a few simple habits can cause trouble down the road. Mistakes You’ll Want to Avoid:
🚫 Skipping Checkups
Even if your teeth feel fine, small problems can sneak up fast. A quick cleaning now can save you from bigger (and pricier) issues later.
🚫 Picking the Wrong Brush or Paste
Hard bristles or harsh toothpaste don’t mean a better clean, they can actually wear your enamel down. Go gentle; your teeth will thank you. Go for a soft brush and gentle toothpaste – your gums and bridge will stay happier and healthier.
🚫 Chewing Hard or Sticky Foods
Ice, caramel, and hard candies are your bridge’s worst enemies. They can loosen or even crack the structure. If you must eat something firm, cut it into smaller pieces first.
🚫 Forgetting to Floss Underneath
This is one of the most common mistakes. Bacteria love hiding beneath the bridge – clean there daily to keep your gums healthy.
🚫 Ignoring Discomfort
If your bridge feels off or a bit loose, don’t wait. A quick visit can fix things before they become a bigger problem.
For Maryland Bridges:
Since these are held in place by delicate bonding wings, avoid biting directly into tough foods like apples or steak. Brush gently near the bonded areas. A water flosser works great for keeping things clean without applying too much pressure.
Implant-Supported Bridges:
Implant bridges are strong, but the gums around them still need love. Use a floss threader or small interdental brush to clean around the posts – spots your toothbrush might miss.
Dr. Hernandez-Gil always reminds patients, “Even implants need daily cleaning, the gums around them are living tissue.”
Don’t wait for pain to schedule a visit. Should you notice any gum swelling, lingering bad breath, or looseness in your bridge, come see us at Taylorsville Implant Center – we’ll take care of it quickly.
A quick check-up can go a long way. We’ll take a look, tidy things up, and fix small problems before they get bigger – so you leave with a smile that feels good.
Use a soft toothbrush twice a day and floss underneath your bridge daily with a floss threader or water flosser. Finish with an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep your gums healthy and your breath fresh.
Most bridges last between 10 and 15 years with good oral care. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional checkups can help extend its lifespan.
Yes, once your mouth adjusts, you can eat most foods comfortably. Just avoid biting into very hard or sticky foods, which can loosen or damage the bridge
If your bridge feels loose, uneven, or causes discomfort, it’s best to visit your dentist. Early repairs are usually simple and prevent bigger problems later.
Absolutely. Regular dental visits help your dentist check the bridge’s fit, clean around it properly, and make sure your gums and supporting teeth stay healthy.
A bridge can last for years when you take care of it. Brush well, clean underneath it, and don’t skip your checkups. A little care now keeps your smile strong later.
As Dr. Hernandez-Gil puts it, “A bridge should never feel foreign. When you care for it like it’s your own tooth, it becomes part of your natural smile.” At Taylorsville Implant Center, our goal is simple: to help you protect that smile – comfortably, confidently, and for years to come. Visit us today for a healthy smile!
Schedule your initial consultation today and start your journey towards a pain-free, healthier smile. Contact us now!
We are committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate dental care to Salt Lake City, Taylorsville, and West Valley City patients.
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