Learn About the Proper Care of Your Functional Bridges

If you are like most Americans, you care about how your smile looks and your dental health. Nearly all of us say that a good looking smile is a key to social, career and even dating success, according to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Missing teeth are a problem for many people. More than 30 million people across the United States have lost all of their teeth in at least one jaw. Nearly 15 million of these people have opted to get crowns and functional bridges to replace their lost teeth.

Caring for functional crowns is not rocket science and will not take over a person’s life but it is something to think about. These are some tips to keep your healthy smile looking great.

1. Be careful with what you chew. This means you should avoid doing somethings that you should not do with your natural teeth either such as opening bottles with them. You should avoid chewing ice. Both of these activities very much increase the likelihood that you will do damage to your functional bridges and crowns. Keep in mind that most functional bridges and crowns are made from ceramic materials and if you place enough force or pressure on them, they will break. This is the same as with your natural teeth. They are not un breakable.
2. Brush at least twice a day. Your functional bridges are not real teeth but that does not mean they do not need to be brushed, just like your remaining natural teeth do. Remember, plaque and tartar d not know the difference between natural and artificial teeth and can find a very nice home on your functional bridges. The best thing to do is select a soft bristled brush. It will get rid of the pesky plaque but will be gentle on your dental work.
3. Do not forget to floss. Despite being one of the best things that can be done to keep teeth and gums healthy, only 22% of adults actually do it. It is very much as vital that you floss your artificial teeth just the way you should floss your natural teeth. This is because you are not only protecting your teeth but you are keeping your teeth healthy as well. It is important to prevent gum disease from developing between your dental work and your natural teeth and flossing is a great way to accomplish that goal. To keep your mouth as clean as can be, do this at least once a day. It is best to do this before you brush.
4. Choose a rinse with fluoride. Using a rinse after you brush and floss is a great way to keep plague build up and bacterial growth. When added to an oral hygiene regimen that includes brushing and flossing, using a mouthwash with fluoride gives your mouth more of a defense against plague, bacteria and decay. Make sure the mouthwash and the toothpaste you use have fluoride in them. While most of the water in the United States does have fluoride in it, this is not enough to keep you in excellent oral health. People who may have a higher risk for developing gum disease should take special care to do this.
5. Get regular dental cleanings. Going to your dentist every six months for a check up and cleaning is important whether you have functional bridges, crowns, dental implants or a mouth full of natural teeth. This is the best way to spot small problems before they get to be big ones. Your artificial teeth can benefit just as much from a professional cleaning as your natural teeth and this is the best way to keep your smile looking its best. When you go in, the dental staff can also make sure your functional bridges are still the right fit and can make any needed adjustments.

Your smile is one of the first things people notice when they meet you. At least 32% of all Americans admit that they have concerns about the look of their smile and teeth. Nearly 20% of people will make an effort to conceal their teeth when they are in photos. It can be easy to keep your smile looking great with a little effort.

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