Dental Bridge Aftercare
Dental bridges are false teeth that are bookended by dental crowns. These dental crowns cap the teeth to the sides of the tooth gap. The capped teeth provide the stability to anchor the false tooth in place. Thanks to the crowns securing the false tooth, patients are able to bite, chew, and smile with renewed confidence. Proper aftercare will extend the life of your dental bridges and help with the initial adjustment to the appliance being in place.
We have placed countless dental bridges at his Glastonbury, CT practice. Below is some basic info on aftercare for dental bridges. This should give you an idea of what to expect in the treatment process.
Adjusting to a New Dental Bridge
When a new bridge is in place, it can take a little getting used to. That’s why patients need to be ready for a brief adjustment period to the new bridge. You can expect some initial sensitivity and discomfort, and the appliance may feel a bit strange in your mouth since your bite is not used to it.
Thankfully this adjustment period is not too long. Once you’re used to your new bridge, biting, chewing, smiling, and speaking will feel normal.
Briefly Changing Your Diet
After you get a dental bridge, it’s important to make a brief change to your diet. That means eating soft foods that are lukewarm or room temperature. This will help you avoid placing excessive pressure on the bridge and prevents tooth sensitivity from extreme temperatures. When possible, try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth from the bridge until you’re fully accustomed to it.
The team at our Glastonbury practice also recommends staying away from sticky foods and sweets for two weeks. These kinds of foods can tug at a new bridge and possible dislodge it if you are not careful.
When Can I Return to My Regular Eating Habits?
It can take a few weeks before you’re eating all of your favorite foods again. Slowly reintroduce hard foods and sweets back into your diet. If you’re uncomfortable with hard foods, take your time with them.
Attend Follow-Up Visits as Scheduled
There will be a few follow-up visits to check on the condition of your bridge and how you are feeling with it in place. Be sure to attend all of these follow-up visits as scheduled.
If any problems arise before or between follow-up visits, feel free to contact the practice. It could be the sign of a problem that requires professional attention and care.
Proper Oral Hygiene with a Dental Bridge
Oral hygiene with a dental bridge is simple. Patients should brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a night as usual. Ideally, consider brushing and flossing after every meal.
To prevent damage to your bridge while cleaning your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head. A non-abrasive gel toothpaste is also ideal. You may also want to consider the use of a proxybrush and superfloss to help clean out the nooks and crannies around the crowns and the false tooth.
How Long Will My Dental Bridge Last?
With proper aftercare, a dental bridge can last for 10 years or more. When the bridge needs to be replaced, we can let you know during a routine checkup.
Learn More About Dental Bridges
To learn more about dental bridges and how they can benefit your dental health and wellness, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic and restorative dentist. You can reach us in Glastonbury by calling (860) 856-5399.
