If you’re missing one tooth, a dental implant and restoration can help bring your complete smile back. But if you’re missing multiple teeth in a row, a dental bridge in Baltimore, MD, could be the right option for you. Dental bridges typically use implants on either end to create a permanent and strong dental restoration. But you can also attach a bridge using crowns on the adjacent teeth. Regardless of which bridge you have, proper oral hygiene and care is crucial to ensure a long-lasting restoration that provides a stronger, healthier bite.

Care Tips for Your Dental Bridge in Baltimore, MD

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

As with any dental restoration, proper oral hygiene is a key component in keeping your dental bridge clean and healthy. When you have a bridge, the gums and teeth surrounding it must be well-maintained for it to function effectively. When plaque builds up on your adjoining teeth, it could lead to gum disease, which weakens your mouth and could cause your bridge to suffer.

But cleaning your teeth with a dental bridge isn’t the same as cleaning with your natural teeth. Using too much force or the wrong equipment can cause the bridge to become damaged or even fall out. Thus, it’s crucial that you discuss your dental hygiene care routine with your dentist after your bridge appointment. They’ll be able to recommend the right tools to use, such as a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss threaders. 

Adjust Diet

A proper diet is also essential in maintaining the health of your new dental bridge. Firstly, avoid eating hard or gummy foods, especially within the first few days after your appointment. These foods can cause your bridge to chip or be pulled from your mouth. Even after your bridge has healed, avoiding these foods as much as possible is still a good idea. If eating hard foods, try cutting them up into bite-sized pieces first to avoid putting too much pressure on your bridge. If eating gummy foods, do your best to chew on the opposite side of your mouth.

You can also help your bridge stay healthy by ensuring the rest of your teeth and gums are healthy. Your teeth need nutritional content like every other part of your body. So, eating a diet rich in calcium and vitamins can help strengthen your bite and keep your bridge in working order.

Continue Routine Dental Appointments

With a dental bridge, you’ll need to pay even more attention to your oral health. Seeing your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup is crucial to maintaining your bridge. Regular checkups can help catch minor oral health problems before they become larger disasters. 

Need Help With Your Dental Bridge in Baltimore?

Despite best efforts, there are still many ways a bridge could be damaged or fall out. If this happens, a quick response is critical to increasing the odds of restoration. If your dental bridge needs an adjustment or repair, contact Horizon Family Dental Care. With offices in Baltimore, La Plata, Clinton, and Hanover, we’re ready to help no matter where you’re located. Call your nearest office today for more information.