If you’ve recently had dental bridges installed, congratulations on taking that first step toward restoring the function and aesthetic of your smile. However, even after the bridge has been installed, there are still certain foods that you should avoid in order to protect your new bridges. After all, you wouldn’t want to go back to the dentist because your bridges have been damaged one way or the other because of your eating habits.
Having said that, we want to talk about a couple of foods you must avoid after dental bridges and why:
1. Sticky Foods
It’s advisable to avoid eating hard and sticky foods with newly-fitted dental bridges, as they may become dislodged. These types of foods can get stuck between your teeth, potentially loosening the adhesive that holds the crowns in place.
If you have recently had a dental bridge placed, it is best to wait a while before consuming anything that is sticky or chewy. When you do, be sure to break it down and chew it very carefully before swallowing.
2. Staining Liquids
It is important to be mindful when consuming staining liquids like coffee, tea, and red wine to ensure that your dental bridges stay looking their best. If not properly cared for, these liquids can cause permanent staining on your bridges, making them look dull and discolored.
To help prevent staining from drinks, chew some sugar-free gum after you drink. In addition, consider brushing your teeth after drinking staining drinks or rinse your mouth with water.
3. Salty Foods
Eating salty foods like salted nuts can be bad for your dental bridge because the small pieces of food can get stuck in the gaps, and the constant abrasion can wear away the material. This can lead to damage to the bridge and other dental problems.
In addition, consuming too much salt and acid can weaken the hard outer layer of your teeth, making them vulnerable to decay. To avoid this, it is important to take care of your teeth and limit your intake of these damaging substances, at least while your dental bridge is settling.
4. Acidic Liquids
People may not be aware that acidic liquids like vinegar are extremely acidic and can wear away at your tooth enamel. Of course, other food items like citruses also have some acid. Either way, this is something to be especially wary of if you have dental veneers or white fillings, as it can cause them to become damaged.
If you want to test the acidity of a specific liquid or food item, grab a pH testing kit and look at the pH level. The redder the strip becomes, the more acidic the item.
Conclusion
If you’ve recently undergone a procedure for dental bridges, then the above food items are some of the things you should avoid. If you cannot, then be sure to rinse and brush your teeth right after to minimize their impact on your dental bridges. That way, your dental bridges can properly settle after some time, allowing you to once more enjoy your favorite foods! Of course, avoiding or limiting the above foods will still benefit your dental bridges and will go a long way in ensuring it looks great and lasts for a long time.
Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry is your go-to local Danvers dentist, offering a variety of dental services to help meet any oral needs. If you are looking for dental bridges in Danvers, book an appointment with us today!