If you have crowns or bridges, you actually need to work harder at keeping them clean than people who still have their natural teeth.  It's true, of course, that the artificial teeth can't decay.  But the tooth underneath that holds the crown can, and crowns and bridges can attract and hold plaque (the filmy material in which harmful bacteria live) and thus increase your risk of periodontal (gum) disease.

 

If you have crowns or bridges, here's what you should do:

 

• Thoroughly floss at least once each day.  Yes, it is inconvenient, but it is also extremely important!!!

• Brush your teeth at least twice each day.  Use a soft toothbrush. Angle the bristles at a 45o angle into the gum line.  Be sure to brush with a gentle, massaging stroke.   Some electric brushes (we like the SONICARE or ORAL-B units) have been shown to improve upon manual brushing.

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• Use toothpicks, Stimudents, or a rubber tip stimulator (on its own handle, or, sometimes on the end of a toothbrush) to clean under the gum around your crowns or bridges.

 

Additionally, you may need:

 

• If your crowns are connected as a bridge, you'll need a floss threader or SuperFloss to get the floss between the connected teeth.

•  If you have large spaces between your teeth, the best tool to clean them is an interdental brush ("Proxabrush" is the best known and readily available, but Oral-B also makes a very nice one).  It is a simple, effective procedure and you may be surprised at how much additional debris you may be able to remove.

• Daily fluoride rinses (such as ACT or a generic store brand) help reduce the possibility of decay under crowns and bridges.  If you are very susceptible to decay, we will prescribe a prescription strength Fluoride gel (such as Colgate's "Prevident") for daily use.

• "Water Pik" type irrigators can also help remove trapped food debris.  However, they should only be used in addition to (not instead of) brushing and flossing.

 

Twice-a-year dental visits are particularly important for people with restored teeth.  You have invested a lot of time and money to preserve your teeth and we'd like to see them serve you well for years.  If you have any questions about the tools and techniques of preventive home care, please ask for our help.