What are Dental Bridge Infection Symptoms?

A dental bridge is a common approach for replacing missing teeth, but it requires proper care to stay healthy. Infections can occur around or under the bridge if bacteria build up. If you dont treat it, these infections can result in serious issues for your teeth and gums. If you recognize the early signs of a dental bridge infection, you can get treatment as soon as possible.

Can a Dental Bridge Get Infected?

Yes, dental bridges can get infected. While the bridge itself doesn’t decay, the teeth and gums around it can become vulnerable. Plaque and bacteria may build up there and cause infection. Food can also get stuck, which may cause bacteria to thrive. Over time, this can result in an infection if not properly cleaned.

Symptoms of Infection Under a Dental Bridge

In case of a dental bridge abscess, you’ll likely notice several symptoms. These signs help with early detection of infection in tooth bridge:

• Swelling or redness around the bridge
• Bleeding gums near the bridge, especially when brushing or flossing
• Persistent pain in the area, even when not eating
• Bad breath that doesn’t go away
• A feeling that the bridge is loose or moving

How Do You Know If Your Dental Bridge Is Infected?

To confirm whether your dental restoration is infected, we at Atrium Dental will perform a few key evaluations:

1. We will inspect the area for signs of redness, swelling, or irritation.
2. We use X-rays to check for infection in the supporting teeth or bone structure beneath the dental placement, as they aren’t always visible.
3. We may use a dental probe to measure the depth of gum pockets around the area. Deep pockets can indicate infection or gum disease.
4. We will ask about any pain, discomfort, bad breath, or loose feelings, which can all be signs of infection.

What to Do If You See Dental Bridge Infection Symptoms

If you notice signs of infection under dental bridge, take action right away. Here’s what you can do while waiting to see your dentist:

• Rinse with warm (salt) water to decrease swelling and fight bacteria.
• Do not chew hard or sticky foods as they can irritate the area and make the infection worse.
• Maintain your oral hygiene, but be gentle around the infected site.
• Schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible to have the restoration checked.

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How to Treat Infection Under the Dental Bridge?

At our dental clinic, the severity of the infection affects our decision on how to treat infection under dental bridge. However, common dental bridge infection treatments include the following:

1. We would perform scaling and root planing to remove plaque and bacteria under the infected area and around the gumline.
2. If the infection is mild, we may prescribe antibiotics to clear it up.
3. If the infection is severe, surgery may be needed to remove the infected tissue or clean deep pockets around the placement.
4. In some cases, if the infection has damaged the surrounding teeth or gums, we may recommend replacing the restoration entirely.

How Can I Prevent Infection Under the Bridge?

To minimize the risk of infection or prevent an infection under your dental bridge, you can follow these tips:

• Gently brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the area around the placement thoroughly.
• Clean under the site with floss threaders or a water flosser. They can remove trapped food particles and plaque.
• Replace sugary and sticky food with fruits and veggies to prevent plaque buildup.
• Drink water to wash away food and bacteria while supporting saliva flow.
• Use fluoride toothpaste for teeth improvement and prevent decay near the area.

How Often Should You Clean Under a Dental Bridge?

You should regularly clean underneath to prevent infection. Here’s how often you should do it:

• Brush with your soft-bristled toothbrush in the morning and before bed.
• Use a floss threader, water flosser, or interdental brush once a day.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash once a day to kill bacteria.
• Schedule professional cleanings and exams twice a year to ensure that your dentist can catch any issues or early signs of infection.

Conclusion

Dental bridges are a great solution for missing teeth, but infections can develop under them. So, knowing the dental bridge infection symptoms can help you get ahead of your possible problems, before they occur. Remember that you can prevent infections by keeping your dental bridges clean and visiting your dentist regularly.

FAQs

How do you get rid of a bridge infection?

It is treated with a deep cleaning, antibiotics, or sometimes surgery. Your dental expert in Ahwatukee may also replace it if necessary.

How do I clean under my dental bridge?

Use a floss threader or water flosser to remove food and plaque from under the bridge daily. Regular cleaning helps prevent infections.

Does food get under a dental bridge?

Yes, food can get stuck under a dental bridge. Cleaning the area daily helps prevent bacteria from building up and causing infection.

Can I brush my bridge with toothpaste?

Yes, you should brush it with toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled brush and be gentle when brushing around the area.