When a person has lost a single tooth or a small set of teeth from the same area of the mouth, a dental bridge is the most practical solution. Dental bridges fill in gaps left by missing teeth to restore the strength of the bite and the aesthetics of the smile.

Dental bridge treatment has a reputation for being reliable, effective, and long-lasting, especially if a patient cares for the restoration properly. Here, Dr. Sharon B. Mateja goes over dental bridge recovery and aftercare tips so that our Rancho Cucamonga, CA patients know what to expect in the days following treatment.

How Long Is Dental Bridge Recovery?

One of the many benefits of dental bridge treatment is that there is virtually no recovery period. The mouth may feel slightly tender after dental bridge treatment, and it will likely take some time to adjust to how the bite feels once a bridge has been placed, but nothing should prevent patients from going about their normal routine.

It is even safe to eat almost immediately after a dental bridge has been placed, as long as all anesthetic effects have worn off.

Will I Experience Side Effects?

Side effects are common following restorative dentistry treatment. Fortunately, the side effects that develop after a dental bridge has been placed tend to be very minor.

The most likely side effects of dental bridge treatment include:

• Soreness or tenderness at the treatment site
• Slight inflammation
• Increased tooth sensitivity

Dental bridge side effects are only likely to last for a few days, or a week at the most. However, it can take slightly longer for the bite to feel completely normal. It usually takes a couple of weeks for our Rancho Cucamonga patients to adjust to their dental bridge so that it feels like a natural part of the smile.

How Do I Care for My Dental Bridge?

Proper dental bridge aftercare will help patients adjust to their new restoration while also promoting the long-term success of treatment. The following practices are especially beneficial during the first few weeks after dental bridge treatment:

• Avoid foods and beverages with extreme hot or cold temperatures to minimize tooth sensitivity
• Switch to a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth, if sensitivity is an issue
• Stay away from hard, chewy foods that could exacerbate discomfort
• Keep the treatment site clean with regular brushing and flossing
• Consider the use of mouthwash or an antibacterial rinse

Once the initial dental bridge adjustment period is over, the restoration should blend in seamlessly with the natural teeth. And even though a dental bridge cannot develop tooth decay, it is important to treat the restoration like the natural teeth as well. Patients should brush and floss around their bridge regularly, and continue to schedule routine dental exams and cleanings at our dental center. These practices will protect the gums and adjacent teeth from oral health problems that could compromise the smile.

Contact Us

If you have experienced adult tooth loss, Dr. Sharon B. Mateja can help you rebuild your smile. Contact us at your earliest convenience to learn more about dental bridges and the other tooth loss treatments offered at our practice. You can also set up an appointment with Dr. Mateja by calling us in Rancho Cucamonga at (909) 989-5959.