If you are missing teeth, your dentist may recommend a dental bridge to replace them. They are often undetectable in the mouth, which makes them a natural-feeling option, but they do require a bit of extra care. With proper oral hygiene, they can last for a decade or more. Below, the dentists at Genovese Dental, in Cottleville, MO, offer the following tips for caring for your bridge. 

A Guide to Dental Bridges & How to Care for Them

What Is a Bridge?

A dental bridge is used to replace missing or damaged teeth. It consists of a false tooth or series of teeth that are attached to teeth on either side of the bridge. The anchoring teeth are topped with crowns, which attach to the bridge. The fabricated teeth in the bridge look and feel real, and the color is matched to your own. Bridges are permanent and cannot be removed for cleaning.

How to Clean a Bridge

Special care must be taken to clean and floss the false teeth of the bridge. It is important to clean along the gumline and beneath the bridge to prevent gum disease or decay in surrounding teeth. You will need to brush and floss twice a day as normal, and then you will need to use a flosser. The flosser has a point on one end that you can use to get into the gap beneath the bridge. This allows you to remove food particles and bacteria. You may also purchase a proxy brush, which may be easier to maneuver between your teeth. Ask your dentist for recommendations on specific products to help you care for your bridge.

Dental bridges are an effective way to restore appearance and function in the mouth. If you think bridges could help your smile, contact the dentists at Genovese Dental. Their team offers crowns and bridges, dental implants, preventive and cosmetic dentistry, root canals, and more. Call (636) 928-4090 to book an appointment, and visit their website to discover more about their services.