Top Tips for Cleaning Around Your New Bridge

Because the success of a dental bridge depends on its foundation — that is, the teeth to which it’s attached — the American Dental Association (ADA) says it’s essential to keep your other teeth healthy and strong. 

That’s tricky, though, because the bridge introduces some new requirements. You won’t be able to floss like you did before, and you need new tools to keep your mouth healthy. 

We can help. Not only does Thomas D. Sokoly, DDS, offer dental bridges, but he also provides guidance to his patients about how to clean around them. For personalized recommendations to keep your bridge clean and your mouth healthy, visit us at Sokoly Dental in Washington, DC.

Generally, though, anyone with a new bridge should follow these recommendations. 

Brush as normal

Fortunately, your brushing routine doesn’t need to change after getting a new bridge. Continue brushing your teeth twice a day with a toothbrush that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. 

Getting the right tools for flossing

You won’t need to clean between your bridge and the abutment teeth (i.e., the teeth to which the bridge is attached). Because the replacement tooth is attached at the sides to the abutment teeth, your floss won’t slide through. 

That said, don’t skip this area with your floss entirely. To maintain your gum health, it’s important that you clean under the bridge. And that means flossing the area. 

For that, you’ll need a specialized tool. You have a few options include:

• A floss threader
• Super floss, which has a hardened tip
• A water flosser
• An interdental brush

Any of these will allow you to clean the area under your bridge. Dr. Sokoly can help you choose the right tool based on your mouth and your existing oral health habits. 

We can help

While your at-home routine is critical in maintaining your oral health and extending the lifespan of your bridge, you’re not in this alone. Visit Dr. Sokoly and our team twice a year for a dental exam and cleaning where we can thoroughly clean your teeth and bridge and remove any plaque that’s hardened into tartar.

This biannual appointment also allows Dr. Sokoly to check your bridge and the health of your teeth and gums around it. If he notices that you need to adjust your at-home practices, he can help you find new tools or learn new habits. 

Our goal is to keep your mouth healthy so your new bridge can last as long as possible. Schedule some time with us so we can evaluate your bridge and advise you on the best cleaning techniques. Call our Washington, DC, office or book your appointment online today.