Even though your new bridge is made from materials that are not vulnerable to tooth decay, gum disease and the bacteria associated with it can still pose a significant threat.
If residual food particles and plaque aren’t removed from your teeth and gum line they can harden into tartar, which promotes gum disease. Chronic gum disease can cause your gums to recede from the base of your teeth. This allows pockets of infection to form deep in the gums near the roots of abutments that anchor your bridge in place. This could also allow bacteria to work their way into seam where your bridge is cemented to one or both of the abutments. It could even weaken the bone structure anchoring one or both abutments into your jaw.
Brushing and flossing your teeth, and new bridge, twice each day, helps to remove residual food particles and plaque before they harden into tartar. If you’re having trouble cleaning in and around the bridge you might want to try using an interdental brush, a floss threader with waxy floss or a dental water jet.
If you have questions about how to clean your bridge, you should call Dr. Seth Rumley at 919-847-8074 to schedule an appointment.