Caring for your dental crowns and bridges and diving into restorative dentistry in Sarasota opens up a world of maintaining a radiant smile. Whether you’ve opted for porcelain fused to metal (PFM) or the stronger zirconia bridges to combat teeth grinding, understand that with proper care, these structures can offer service from 5 to over 15 years.
A combination of materials chosen by your dentist plays a vital role in durability, while sticking with an oral hygiene routine keeps complications at bay. Brushing twice daily plus regular flossing are essential steps alongside mindful eating habits that protect against damage and ensure longevity.
Maximize Lifespan with Proper Care
Maximizing the lifespan of your dental bridges goes beyond just the basics. The material matters; porcelain fused to metal and zirconia are top choices, offering both durability and resistance against wear. Your oral hygiene routine is crucial—brushing twice a day and using floss designed for bridges can significantly extend your life.
Remember, what you eat impacts your bridge’s longevity, too; steer clear from hard or sticky foods that could cause damage. If underlying issues like gum disease or teeth grinding exist, tackle these with professional help to ensure stability for years to come. Also critical is choosing the right type of bridge: traditional ones generally last longer than cantilever options due to better support structures.
For those considering restorative dentistry, Sarasota understanding these factors can guide you toward making informed decisions about care, ensuring long-lasting results from dental restorations.
Daily Cleaning Techniques for Durability
To keep your dental bridges in top shape, start with twice-a-day brushing. Use a soft toothbrush and gentle paste to avoid scratch marks on the bridge. Circle around both artificial and natural teeth carefully.
Flossing is next, crucial for removing trapped particles that can cause harm over time. Get specialized floss or a threader for this task—it’s designed to navigate those tricky spaces effectively. Also, consider adding a water flosser to your routine; it blasts away food bits regular floss might miss, especially around those bridges where gaps tend to hide such debris.
Lastly, don’t skip mouthwash! A fluoridated one not only combats bacteria but also keeps your breath fresh after you finish cleaning. Avoid habits like using teeth as tools, as they can damage your restorative work.
Regular check-ins with Sarasota dentists are crucial for catching potential issues early.
Avoid Damaging Habits and Foods
To safeguard your dental crowns and bridges, mind what you eat. Cut hard foods into small pieces instead of biting them whole. Sticky treats like candies can weaken the bond of your crowns or bridges, so consume them sparingly.
Also, rapid changes in food temperature might cause cracking – avoid switching between hot and cold drinks quickly. Watch out for habits that could harm your restorations: grinding teeth at night? Your dentist can recommend a night guard to prevent damage from bruxism.
And remember, never use your teeth as tools; opening packages or cracking nuts with them puts too much stress on the restorations. Keep up with regular dental checkups twice a year to catch any potential issues early and maintain optimal oral health.
