If you are not a candidate for a dental implant, utilizing a bridge can be another solution for filling the gap. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth securely attached between two crowns, either anchored to your natural teeth or affixed to dental implants. Typically employed to replace one or multiple missing teeth, this permanent dental prosthetic can maintain its integrity for over a decade if properly maintained. Like your natural teeth, brushing your dental bridge twice daily and using TePe® Bridge and Implant Floss daily is essential. However, flossing can be somewhat challenging when you have a dental prosthesis.
The care of dental bridges necessitates a distinct flossing technique and specific flossing supplies. Whether you’re contemplating getting a bridge, already have one, or wish to enhance your dental hygiene practices, this guide will provide comprehensive information on caring for your dental bridge or implants and your remaining natural teeth.
The Why and How
Many individuals need to pay more attention to the importance of flossing in their oral care routine, especially when brushing their teeth thoroughly and not perceiving any lingering debris between them. However, it’s crucial to recognize that food particles and plaque can quickly become trapped and accumulate in the tight spaces between your dental bridge and gums. This buildup not only elevates the risk of neighboring tooth decay and gum inflammation but also poses a potential threat to the stability of your bridge. Therefore, daily flossing plays a vital role in preserving the durability of your dental bridge and maintaining the overall well-being of your natural teeth.
When it comes to flossing around bridges, you may need to adjust your dental hygiene routine. While your brushing technique remains unchanged, acquiring specific flossing tools could be beneficial. These tools facilitate flossing around bridges and enhance your flossing experience for your other teeth. One effective method for flossing around bridges involves using a floss with stiff ends. Floss with stiff ends allows you to guide the floss under the bridge and continue flossing. Alternatively, consider investing in interdental brushes and water flossers, which prove invaluable in reaching challenging areas in your mouth, ensuring a more thorough and effective cleaning process.
Special Floss
TePe® Bridge and Implant Floss is a specialized type characterized by thickness and flexibility, specifically formulated for cleaning implants, bridges, and braces. Unlike standard floss, which may struggle to access the intricate spaces around implants, this thicker floss is expertly crafted to fit into the broader regions surrounding crowns and implants. Its sturdy plastic ends offer easy handling and insertion, while the wide and cushioned material proves exceptionally effective in cleaning.
Other Helpful Products to Leverage
An Interdental Brush – This specialized instrument is a small brush with bristles like those found on a toothbrush to fit between teeth and under bridges. To utilize it effectively, grasp the handle and insert the bristled end beneath your bridge. Proceed with gentle back-and-forth movements along your gum line. If you have dental implants, ensure the wire is plastic coated, as a metal wire could potentially harm the titanium.
A Water Flosser – Resembling a handheld pen, a water flosser employs a pulsating pressurized jet of water to cleanse away food particles and plaque that may have become trapped beneath your bridge and around your dental crowns. For optimal usage, lean over the sink and initiate the process at the lowest pressure setting and working your way up to a higher setting. Direct the water stream between your gums and the bridge at a ninety degree angle.
TePe Oral Healthcare promotes healthy smiles for life by advocating for good oral health care using high-quality dental products. They provide remedies that advocate for enduring oral health, consequently enhancing the quality of life for individuals around the globe.
