Even though your new bridge is made from materials that will not succumb to the bacterial effects of tooth decay, you will still need to include it in your daily oral hygiene routine. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can still pose a serious threat to the lifespan of your bridge.

Residual food particles and plaque that are not cleaned away by brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day can harden into tartar, which is the leading cause of gum disease. The advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis can slowly cause your gums to recede from the base of your teeth.

When this happens, pockets of infection start to for deep within your gums near the roots of abutments that anchor your bridge in place. This allows bacteria access to the seam where your bridge is cemented to one or both of the abutments. While it is rare, some of these bacteria could begin to weaken the cement holding one of both abutments to your bridge.

Brushing and flossing your teeth, as well as your bridge, will help to clear away residual food particles and plaque before they harden into tartar. If you’re having trouble cleaning in and around the bridge you might want to try using interdental brushes, a floss threader with waxy floss, or a dental water jet.

If you have questions or concerns about how to effectively clean and care for your new bridge, you can call our dental office at 414-525-0300 to schedule a consultation.