If you’ve recently received dental bridges or dentures, congratulations! You’ve taken a significant step toward restoring your smile and improving your oral health. However, the journey doesn’t end here. Proper care is essential to maintain the longevity and functionality of your dental prosthetics. Whether you’re a new or existing patient, this guide will provide you with practical tips to keep your dental bridges and dentures in top condition.
Understanding Dental Bridges and Dentures
Dental Bridges are fixed prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent natural teeth or implants. They literally “bridge” the gap created by missing teeth. Dentures, on the other hand, are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They come in two types: complete dentures for replacing all teeth and partial dentures for replacing a few missing teeth.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Maintaining cleanliness is paramount for both dental bridges and dentures to prevent plaque buildup, bad breath, and potential infections.
Brushing: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean your dental bridges and dentures daily. For dentures, remove them and brush gently with a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Avoid using regular toothpaste as it can be too harsh. For dental bridges, brush them along with your natural teeth using fluoride toothpaste.
Soaking: If you have dentures, soak them overnight in a denture solution to keep them moist and maintain their shape. Rinse them thoroughly with water before wearing them again.
Flossing: Floss under the bridge daily to remove food particles and plaque. Use a floss threader or water flosser to navigate around the dental bridge easily.
Rinsing: Rinse your mouth and dental bridges or dentures after meals to remove food debris and prevent plaque buildup. This step is crucial to avoid bad breath and keep your mouth feeling fresh.
Regular Dental Check-ups
It’s crucial to visit us at Fletcher Dental Centre in Hamilton regularly to ensure your dental bridges or dentures fit well and to check for any potential issues. Ill-fitting dentures or bridges can cause discomfort, sores, and even infection. Our dental team can make necessary adjustments to improve comfort and function.
Mind Your Diet
Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your dental bridges or dentures. Opt for softer foods and cut them into smaller, manageable pieces. Be cautious with hot beverages and foods as dentures can make it difficult to sense temperature changes.
Handle with Care
Always handle your dentures with care to avoid dropping and breaking them. When cleaning, place a towel in the sink or fill it with water to cushion the fall if you accidentally drop them.
Avoid Staining and Bad Habits
Avoid foods and beverages that can stain your dentures or bridges, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. Additionally, refrain from using tobacco products as they can discolor your prosthetics and contribute to oral health problems.
Taking care of your dental bridges and dentures is a commitment to your oral health and overall well-being. At Fletcher Dental Centre in Hamilton, we are here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need assistance with your dental care, don’t hesitate to contact us. Schedule your appointment today, by calling us at (905) 692-3003, and let our dental team help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile!
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