Summer is the season of delicious snacks—think buttery popcorn at the park, sticky BBQ at backyard gatherings, and sweet ice cream on sunny afternoons. While these treats are a delight, they can pose a challenge when it comes to keeping your dental bridges clean and in great shape. We don’t want you to have to frantically search “restorative dentist near me” because of a problem with your tooth bridge during this relaxing season.
Plus, proper care isn’t just about maintaining your smile; it’s also key to ensuring the longevity of your investment in restorative dentistry. To keep you on track, below are six expert tips from Village Dental to help you keep your dental bridge spotless and your smile bright this summer.
1. Brush Thoroughly, Twice a Day
After indulging in snacks like sugary ice cream or BBQ sauces, brushing is essential. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your teeth and any restorative dentistry, including dental bridges. A non-abrasive toothpaste will also help protect the finish of your bridges while maintaining their appearance.
Tip from a Restorative Dentist Near Me
Don’t be too rough! “Thorough” doesn’t mean “aggressive.” The goal is to remove food particles without damaging the bridge material. Try to reach every surface while staying gentle in your movements.
2. Don’t Skip Flossing
Flossing can feel tricky with dental bridges, but it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent food from becoming trapped beneath or between a bridge.
If you’re having trouble flossing with a bridge, we recommend using a floss threader or water flosser. These tools can make flossing under and around your dental bridges easier. This is especially helpful after eating sticky snacks like caramel or BBQ sauces.
3. Rinse After Snacking
During summer outings, you may not always have a toothbrush handy. After all, the Village Dental team isn’t expecting you to carry around a full oral health kit to every event. When you can, rinse your mouth with water or a dentist-approved mouthwash after enjoying summer snacks.
Tip from a Restorative Dentist Near Me
Rinsing helps dislodge food debris. This, in return, reduces the acidity in your mouth. The sugars in food and drink can create acids that stay on your teeth for up to 40 minutes. Rinsing helps protect both your dental bridge and natural teeth from those acid attacks.
4. Avoid Crunchy or Hard Foods
While snacks like popcorn are a summer favorite, stray kernels can get lodged under dental bridges or even damage them. Consider enjoying softer alternatives, or practice caution by eating slowly and mindfully to lessen the risk of damage.
5. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water not only keeps you cool during the summer heat but also assists with oral hygiene. Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that can harm your dental bridges and surrounding teeth. A hydrated mouth is less likely to accumulate plaque, particularly after snacking.
Tip from a Restorative Dentist Near Me
This isn’t just good advice for your dental bridge! Staying hydrated reduces your risk of cavities, which means you can avoid dental fillings and other restoration dentistry procedures at Village Dental.
6. Schedule Regular Professional Cleanings
Even with excellent at-home care, it’s important to visit our New York City dentist regularly. Routine dental cleanings and exams will help ensure your dental bridges remain in top shape. We can even provide deeper cleanings, check for any signs of wear, and offer advice tailored to your specific dental needs.
Get Summer Care Tips from a Restorative Dentist Near Me
At Village Dental, we love helping our patients maintain their confident, healthy smiles. If you have dental bridges and want personalized advice, book an appointment today! Whether it’s cleaning tips or repairs, our friendly team is here to support your dental health all summer long.
