Even though your new bridge is made from artificial materials that are not subject to tooth decay, it will still need daily care and cleaning. Gum disease can still pose a very serious threat to its long-term integrity. If residual food particles and plaque are not effectively cleaned from your teeth, it can harden into tartar. Tartar at the gumline is the leading cause of gum disease.
If left untreated, gum disease will cause your gums to recede from the base of your teeth, forming pockets of infection. This can compromise the roots of the abutments that anchor your bridge in your mouth. At the same time, the pervasive bacteria can slowly compromise the seam where your bridge is cemented to one or both of the abutments.
Brushing and flossing your teeth and your new bridge twice each day help remove residual food particles and plaque before they harden into tartar. If you’re having trouble cleaning around your bridge, you might want to try using interdental brushes, a floss threader with waxy floss or a dental water jet.
If you have questions about how to clean and maintain your new dental bridge in Orland Park, Illinois, you can call Trine Dental Group at 708-448-2588 to seek further advice from your dentist, Dr. Christopher Pavletic.