Bridge Care

Fixed dental bridge care requires special attention to the area under the pontic (false tooth) and around the abutment crowns. Daily cleaning must include: regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing under the pontic using floss threaders, super floss (has a stiff end for threading, spongy section for cleaning under pontics), or a water flosser (particularly effective for bridges). The most common bridge failure points are decay under the abutment crowns and gum disease around the supporting teeth. Interdental brushes help clean around abutment margins. Professional cleanings should include specific attention to bridge margins and subpontic areas. Signs of problems include: food trapping that wasn't present before (possible margin gap), sensitivity in abutment teeth, bad taste or odor from the bridge area, or mobility. With proper care, well-made bridges can last 10-15+ years. Avoid using the bridge area for biting very hard foods.