A well-fitted bridge can restore your confident smile and oral functions such as chewing and speaking. It is therefore important to adopt good practices to keep your bridge in good condition.
Tooth sensitivity is a sign of decay under your bridge and this happens when food has accumulated beneath the bridge causing tooth decay. This then erodes into the sensitive part of your tooth, causing you to feel a shocking sensation when you eat or drink.
You will learn through reading this article about the signs of decay under the bridge, how it happens, and how to prevent it.
A conventional dental bridge is comprised of a row of dental crowns which are linked together and cemented on an anchor tooth/teeth. This anchor tooth supports the remaining prosthesis over the missing area.
Decay happens when toxins from the build-up of plaque and food debris underneath the crowns or at the margins of the bridge. Tooth decay under bridge symptoms include:
Cleaning the gums, especially in poorly designed bridges can be difficult. This can cause a build-up of food debris which decay and give off a bad smell.
Shocking sensations when you have drinks or food could be a sign of decay under the bridge. Bacterial toxins cause a breakdown of the outer covering of the tooth, exposing the nerve-rich dentin which causes a shocking sensation.
Dental bridges can become loosened due to decay underneath the bridge. This decay causes gum disease and swelling which can make your bridges lose and move when you chew or speak.
Preventing the accumulation of mouth bacteria or plaque beneath the dental bridge or at the margins of the bridge and supporting tooth/teeth may become more difficult due to the structure of the bridge. This can become worsened when the bridge is ill-fitting, leaving spaces around the margins of the bridge which can serve as stagnation areas.
Also, frequent consumption of food and drinks rich in refined sugar serves as a source of fuel for mouth bacteria. These bacteria release toxins breaking down tooth structure and leading to pain and discomfort.
Maintaining good dental hygiene and routine cleaning are required to prevent the build-up of mouth bacteria and food debris. This involves:
· Brushing twice daily with a fluoridated paste
· Use dental floss to clean between the teeth and dental bridge
· Ensure that you properly rinse your mouth after eating a meal to remove food debris
· Rinse your mouth with a certified mouth wash
· Reduce the consumption of food containing refined sugar
· Routinely visit your dentist for examination and cleaning
Decay under the dental bridge can occur as a result of several factors. You should ensure that your bridge is properly fitted and you practice good oral hygiene to prolong its longevity and maintain your confident smile.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your local Premier Dental office to schedule an appointment. Our experienced dentists can examine your existing bridge and provide a treatment plan to keep your dental bridge healthy for years to come.
