How to Clean and Whiten Dental Crowns and Bridges : A Comprehensive Guide
Dental crowns and bridges are essential dental restorations that can restore your smile and oral function. They are durable and designed to last for many years, but over time, they may lose their natural luster and become stained or discolored. To maintain their brightness and enhance your smile, it is crucial to know how to clean and whiten dental crowns and bridges effectively. In this blog post, we will explore the best practices for cleaning and whitening these dental restorations, ensuring they stay radiant and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Understanding Dental Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges are custom-made prosthetic devices that are used to restore damaged or missing teeth. Crowns are individual tooth-shaped caps that encase a damaged tooth, while bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring them to adjacent healthy teeth. These restorations can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these. Regardless of the material used, proper care and maintenance are crucial to ensure their longevity and aesthetic appeal.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
To keep your dental crowns and bridges looking their best, it’s very worthwhile to stick to a consistent oral hygiene routine. This routine should include:
Brushing
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently brush your teeth and restorations twice a day. Pay close attention to the area where the crown or bridge meets your natural tooth to prevent plaque and debris buildup.
Flossing
Regular flossing is essential to remove food particles and plaque from the gaps between your crowns, bridges, and adjacent teeth. Use a floss threader or interdental brushes to ensure thorough cleaning.
Mouthwash
Incorporate an antimicrobial mouthwash into your routine to help reduce bacteria and freshen your breath. Be sure to choose a non-alcoholic mouthwash, as alcohol-based products may affect the longevity of the dental restorations.
Professional Dental Cleaning
In addition to your regular oral hygiene routine, it is crucial to schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings. During these visits, our dentists or dental hygienists will use specialised tools and techniques to clean and polish your dental crowns and bridges effectively. They will remove any plaque, tartar, or stains that may have accumulated on the restorations, leaving them looking brighter and more vibrant.
Whitening Options for Dental Crowns and Bridges
Unlike natural teeth, crowns and bridges do not respond to traditional teeth whitening methods. Since they are made of materials that are resistant to bleaching agents, it is important to consult with one of our dentists before attempting any whitening procedures. Your dentist may recommend the following options:
Professional Polishing
In many cases, a professional dental cleaning and polishing session may be sufficient to restore the natural shine of your dental restorations. One of our dentists will use special polishing instruments and techniques to remove surface stains and bring back their original luster.
Replacement or Resurfacing
If your crowns or bridges are severely stained or discolored, your dentist may recommend replacing them with new restorations. Alternatively, in certain cases, they may be able to resurface the existing restorations to improve their appearance.
Trust Comfort Dental For Maintaining Your Beautiful Smile
Maintaining the cleanliness and brightness of your dental crowns and bridges is essential for a healthy and radiant smile. By following a diligent oral hygiene routine, scheduling regular dental check-ups, and consulting with our dentists for appropriate whitening options, you can ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your dental restorations. Remember, always seek professional advice before attempting any whitening procedures to avoid potential damage. With proper care, your dental crowns and bridges will continue to enhance your smile for years to come.
Restore your smile’s beauty with our clinic’s exceptional dental crowns and bridge services! Our skilled dentists in buderim are dedicated to crafting customised dental crowns and bridges that seamlessly blend with your existing teeth, restoring their shape, function, and aesthetics. Reclaim your beautiful, healthy smile and enhance your overall oral well-being. Discover the potential of your smile with Comfort Dental Buderim. Contact us to book an appointment or visit our website for more information.
