Maintaining Your Dental Bridges and Crowns

Preserving Functionality, Long-Term Durability and Aesthetics  

Dental bridges and crowns are excellent solutions for restoring damaged or missing teeth. It provides both functionality and aesthetics. However, they require proper care to ensure their longevity and maintain their appearance like natural teeth.  

In this blog post, we will discuss four essential steps to help you maintain your dental bridges and crowns.  preserving their functionality, long-term durability, and aesthetics. 

Tips to Consider for Your Crowns and Dental Bridges Maintenance   

Here are some important tips you need to consider for your dental crowns and dental bridges maintenance: 

1. Regular Oral Hygiene 

Just like with natural teeth, regular oral hygiene practices are crucial for the health and maintenance of dental bridges and dental crowns. Make sure to: 

Brush Twice a Day 

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth and bridges/crowns gently. Pay extra attention to the areas where the bridges or crowns meet the gumline.  

Floss Daily 

Flossing is essential to remove any plaque or debris that may accumulate between your teeth and around the dental restoration. Use a floss threader or special floss designed for bridges and crowns to ensure thorough cleaning. 

Rinse with Mouthwash 

Antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and plaque buildup, promoting overall oral health. Rinse with a mouthwash recommended by your dentist, focusing on the areas surrounding your dental bridges and dental crowns. 

2. Gentle Brushing Techniques 

It is important to adopt gentle brushing techniques to keep your dental bridges and crowns in optimal condition. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth, paying special attention to the areas around your dental restorations. Brush in gentle, circular motions, ensuring that you clean both the surface of your teeth and the margins where the restoration meets your natural tooth. 

3. Optimal Diet Choices 

Maintaining a healthy diet not only benefits your overall well-being but also plays a vital role in preserving the longevity of your dental crowns and bridges. Consider the following dietary choices: 

Avoid Chewy or Sticky Foods 

Chewing on hard, sticky, or excessively chewy foods can put unnecessary stress on your dental restorations. Opt for softer foods that are easier to chew, such as cooked vegetables, lean proteins, and soft fruits. 

Be Mindful of Hard Foods 

Be cautious when consuming hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candies, as they can potentially damage your dental bridges and crowns. Cut or break them into smaller, manageable pieces whenever possible. 

Stay Hydrated 

Drinking plenty of water helps maintain oral health by washing away food particles and stimulating saliva production, which aids in neutralizing harmful acids and promoting a healthier oral environment. 

4. Limit Acidic Foods and Sugary Beverages 

Acidic foods and sugary beverages can erode tooth enamel and contribute to the development of dental issues. To safeguard your dental bridges and crowns: 

Limit Acidic Foods 

Foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar-based dressings can weaken tooth enamel over time. Consume them in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize the acid's impact. 

Minimize Sugary Beverages 

Sugary drinks like soda, sports drinks, and fruit juices can promote tooth decay and compromise the integrity of dental restorations. Opt for water, unsweetened tea, or milk instead. 

5. Schedule Professional Dental Cleanings 

Regular dental cleanings are crucial in maintaining the health and longevity of your dental bridges and crowns. Professional cleanings not only remove plaque and tartar buildup but also allow your dentist to assess the condition of your restorations. During these appointments, your dentist can identify any signs of wear, cracks, or decay and provide appropriate treatment before any issues worsen. 

6. Avoid Teeth Grinding 

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can significantly impact the lifespan of your dental restorations. The excessive force exerted during grinding can cause fractures and damage to your bridges and crowns. If you suspect that you grind your teeth, consult your dentist who may recommend a custom-made nightguard to protect your restorations while you sleep. 

7. Use Proper Cleaning Techniques 

To effectively clean your dental bridges and crowns, employ the following techniques: 

• Water flossers are excellent tools for cleaning hard-to-reach areas around dental restorations. The pulsating water stream helps dislodge plaque and debris without causing damage. 
• Interdental brushes are small, cone-shaped brushes designed to clean between teeth and around dental restorations. They are particularly useful for removing plaque and food particles from difficult-to-reach spaces. 

Schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings to ensure that your dental bridges and crowns are in good condition. Your dentist can identify and address any potential issues before they escalate. 

8. Avoid Tobacco Use and Smoking 

Tobacco use and smoking can have detrimental effects on both your oral health and the longevity of your dental bridges and crowns. Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, which can lead to the loss of supporting bone and compromise the stability of your restorations.  

Additionally, tobacco stains can discolor your teeth, affecting the aesthetic appeal of your dental work. Quitting tobacco use and smoking not only benefits your overall health. It also helps maintain the beauty and functionality of your dental restorations.  

9. Use a Mouthguard During Physical Activities 

Engaging in physical activities, especially contact sports, can pose a risk to your dental restorations. To protect your dental bridges and crowns, it is highly recommended to use a mouthguard. 

 A mouthguard acts as a:  

• Protective barrier 
• Absorbing the impact of any potential blows to your mouth  
• Reducing the risk of damage to your dental restorations 

You can enjoy your favorite physical activities without worrying about damaging your dental bridges and crowns by wearing a mouthguard.  

10. Avoid Nail Biting and Chewing or Opening Hard Objects 

Your dental bridges and crowns are designed to withstand the forces of regular chewing and biting. However, they are not indestructible. To preserve their functionality and longevity, it is crucial to avoid harmful habits like nail biting, chewing on hard objects, or using your teeth to open packages or bottles. These habits can put excessive pressure on your dental restorations, leading to cracks, chips, or even dislodgement. By breaking these habits, you can protect your dental bridges and crowns from unnecessary damage and ensure their long-term durability. 

11. Consider Dental Bridge Replacement 

While dental bridges and crowns are designed to last for many years, they are not immune to wear and tear. Over time, you may experience certain signs that indicate the need for a dental bridge replacement. It's important to be aware of these signs to address any potential issues promptly. Here are some indicators that you may need a dental bridge replacement: 

Loose Bridge

If you notice that your dental bridge feels loose or shifts when you chew or speak, it may be a sign that it needs to be replaced. A loose bridge can compromise its functionality and increase the risk of damage or discomfort. 

Visible Damage and Wear

Over time, dental bridges and crowns may show signs of wear, such as chips, cracks, or discoloration. If you notice significant visible damage, it is advisable to consult your dentist for a replacement. 

Changes in Bite Alignment

If you experience changes in your bite alignment, such as discomfort or difficulty in chewing, it could be an indication that your dental bridge needs to be replaced. A misaligned bite can lead to further dental issues if left unaddressed. 

Recurring Discomfort and Pain

If you experience recurring discomfort or pain around your dental bridge or crown, it is crucial to seek professional advice. Persistent pain may indicate an underlying issue that requires immediate attention. 

Proper dental crowns and dental bridges maintenance is essential for preserving their functionality, long-term durability, and aesthetics. You can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your dental restorations by using the tips we have listed here.  

Contact your dentist in Union City, Dr. Zafar Sayeedi, at Noble Dental Care to learn more about maintaining your Dental Bridges and Crowns.

Resource:

Essential Preventive Dental Procedures For Kids.

*This media/content or any other on this website does not prescribe, recommend, or prevent any treatment or procedure. Therefore, we highly recommend that you get the advice of a qualified dentist or other medical practitioners regarding your specific dental condition.*