While you are waiting for your permanent bridge to be installed your dentist will give you a temporary bridge. This bridge is designed to cover any missing teeth and make your smile appear uniform. The temporary bridge is applied using a soft paste that makes the bridge easy to remove and reapply. While the bridge is only temporary, it can become damaged or cracked if it is mistreated. The bridge is constructed out of plastic, therefore, it is more susceptible to damage. As a result, there are a few tips you should use to make sure your temporary bridge remains in good condition until you are outfitted with your permanent bridge.

Avoid Eating Sticky or Hard Foods

It usually takes a few weeks for your dentist to install your permanent bridge. As a result, it is important to avoid eating any hard or sticky foods during this time. Since the bridge is constructed out of plastic it will break easily under the pressure created when chewing hard foods. In addition, sticky foods can adhere to the bridge and pull it out of its opening. If this happens, it is important to reapply the bridge as soon as possible.

Brush and Rinse Around the Bridge After Every Meal

Since your temporary bridge is installed using a mild adhesive, it can become loose at any moment. Therefore, this increases the chances that food will find its way underneath the bridge. The food will quickly lead to tooth decay if the area is not cleaned properly and regularly. A few ways to avoid this is by brushing after every meal and rinsing with an anti-bacterial mouthwash after every meal. This will help to kill off any bacteria that finds its way underneath your temporary bridge.

Gently Floss Around the Bridge

It is important to floss around the bridge in order to prevent it from getting loose. This can be done by moving the floss towards the gum line and using a back and forth motion to remove any food debris. You can wrap the floss around the real tooth and slide it from the base of the tooth to the top. This will allow you to clean in between the bridge without accidentally loosening the bridge.

A temporary bridge is needed to keep your mouth protected until your permanent bridge is inserted. Therefore, use these tips to maintain your temporary bridge until your next dentist visit. Contact your dentist for more information.