A dental bridge is a type of tooth replacement prosthetic that can replace one or more adjacent teeth. Typically, a traditional bridge is comprised of one (or more) pontics or artificial teeth that fill in your tooth gap. The pontic has a crown at each end, which attaches to your healthy teeth to secure the dental bridge in place. Dental bridges can also be held in place with implants anchored into your jawbone.1
Tooth reconstructions like dental bridges usually feel foreign in your mouth at first; they take some time to get used to. The right combination of patience and good habits can help you enjoy your favorite meals and speak naturally with time. Here’s what to expect and how to make the adjustment easier.
Practice speaking slowly and clearly
If your bridge is placed toward the front of your mouth, speaking might feel trickier at first. You might notice changes in how you pronounce certain words or sounds. This is nothing to worry about; it’s just your tongue adjusting to the new shape in your mouth.
One of the best solutions is to practice daily. Read aloud, sing along to your favorite songs, or engage in conversation at home as often as you can. These steps can help retrain your tongue and lips and can help most people speak normally again within a week or two.
If you still notice difficulty pronouncing certain sounds after a few weeks, check in with your dentist. Sometimes, a small adjustment to the bridge’s shape or height can help your tongue move more freely.
Start eating slowly with soft foods
When you first get your dental bridge, your gums and surrounding teeth might feel a little sensitive. That’s why it’s best to start with soft foods for the first few days. Most dentists recommend yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, or soup, but you can eat most foods that don’t require a lot of chewing.
Once you’re comfortable with soft foods, you can slowly reintroduce more solid foods. Cut tougher items, like meat or raw vegetables, into smaller bites and chew slowly. It’s best to avoid very sticky or hard foods, such as caramel, taffy, nuts, or hard candies. Biting down on hard foods can cause your bridge to crack or chip, while sticky foods can be difficult to clean.
Chew evenly and take your time
Many first-time dental bridge patients tend to rely on one side of their mouth out of habit, especially if that’s where their bridge feels strongest. But chewing only on one side puts extra stress on those teeth and can cause soreness or uneven wear.2
The solution is to chew slowly and be mindful about chewing evenly on both sides. This not only helps your bridge last longer but also improves digestion and reduces the chance of biting your tongue or cheek.
Keep your bridge clean
A dental bridge fills the gap where teeth are missing, but food can still get trapped around it, especially underneath the false tooth (or pontic). Cleaning well around your bridge helps prevent plaque build-up, gum irritation, and bad breath.
Here are a few hygiene tips:
- Brush your teeth and bridge twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Use floss or a waterpick to clean between the bridge and your gums.
- Rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash to remove any remaining traces of plaque.
Maintain regular dental visits
Even with great home care, regular checkups are essential. Your dentist will monitor how your bridge and surrounding teeth are holding up, remove any stubborn plaque, and make sure your bite remains balanced. A well-cared-for dental bridge can last up to 15 years or even longer.1 Keeping up with cleanings and addressing small issues early helps you get the most from your investment.
Dental bridge costs can vary. Implant bridges are generally more secure and long-lasting, but they’re also a bigger investment. Meanwhile, traditional dental bridges can be cheaper at first but may require more repairs and replacements in the future. Your dental care team will normally recommend a solution based on your needs and your budget.
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