Dental bridges and dentures are excellent solutions for missing teeth, but their longevity largely depends on how well they are maintained. At Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry in Topeka, KS, Dr. Andrew Lewis, DDS, and Dr. Ted A. Jowett, DDS, emphasize the importance of proper care for these dental appliances. This guide will help you understand the best practices for maintaining your dental bridges and dentures.
Understanding Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or implants. Our Crowns and Bridges service ensures that your dental bridge is crafted to match your natural teeth in both appearance and function.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Just like your natural teeth, bridges require daily brushing and flossing.
- Special Floss: Use floss threaders or water flossers to clean under the bridge.
- Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits for Dental Exams and Cleaning to ensure the health of the bridge and surrounding teeth.
Caring for Dentures
Dentures are removable appliances that can replace missing teeth and help restore your smile. Whether you have complete or partial dentures, proper care is crucial. Our Dentures service provides personalized fitting and guidance for denture care.
Maintenance Tips:
- Daily Cleaning: Clean your dentures daily using a soft-bristle denture brush and mild soap or denture cleaner.
- Soaking Overnight: Most dentures need to remain moist to keep their shape, so soak them in water or a denture-soaking solution overnight.
- Handle with Care: When handling your dentures, do so over a towel or a sink filled with water to avoid breakage if dropped.
Professional Maintenance and Adjustments
Even with meticulous care at home, your dental bridges and dentures may require adjustments or repairs over time. This is where our expertise in Restorative Implants and prosthetic dentistry comes into play, providing professional maintenance to ensure the best fit and function.
The Role of Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is vital for the longevity of your bridges and dentures. This includes taking care of your gums, remaining teeth, and any implant sites. Regular Periodontal Treatments can also help in maintaining the health of your gums and supporting structures.
The Importance of Regular Dental Visits
Regular check-ups are essential, not just for the care of your dental appliances but also for your overall oral health. During these visits, we can spot and address any issues early, ensuring that your bridges and dentures function effectively.
Your Partner in Dental Health
At Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry, we’re committed to helping you keep your dental bridges and dentures in top condition. Dr. Andrew Lewis and Dr. Ted A. Jowett are here to provide you with the best care and guidance. Maintaining these dental appliances is a team effort, and we are your partners every step of the way.
References:
- American Dental Association – Care tips for bridges and dentures.
- Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry – Long-term maintenance of dental prosthetics.
- International Journal of Dentistry – Oral hygiene practices for patients with dentures.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at 785-272-3864 or visit our website.
