“I got a new bridge two months ago at another practice. Two weeks after the bridge was fitted, I cleaned under the bridge using superfloss. There was a horrible smell. I have been cleaning the area three times a day, but it remains the same. What can I do?”
Dr Sunita Verma in Brentford says:
Firstly, I think it would be a good idea to have your bridge checked to ensure that the bridge is fitting well. When a bridge is first fitted, you need to get into a good oral hygiene routine straight away.
At Sparkle Dental Boutique, I routinely encourage my patients to see our hygienist, particularly if they have had restorations fitted including a bridge, crown or porcelain veneers.
After eating and before you go to bed, you need to brush your teeth and gums with a soft brush, especially where the bridge meets the gum line (margin). At the margin, harmful bacteria can gather to cause tooth decay and gum disease. You also need to floss at least once a day using superfloss. This will help to remove plaque under and around these areas to maintain good oral hygiene. With a bridge you must clean under as well as around the bridge to prevent food debris and plaque gathering and the area becoming infected.
My advice would be for you to see a dentist so that they can check your bridge and also check whether you have an infection under the bridge. I would also advise you to see a hygienist for professional cleaning so that any build up around your bridge and teeth can be removed. The hygienist can also show you you how to look after your bridge and maintain good oral health.
