Your bridge replaces a missing tooth by attaching to the teeth on either side. Keeping the area under it clean is the key to it lasting.
First days
- Avoid chewing, hot drinks and biting your cheek, lip or tongue until the numbness wears off, usually within 2–5 hours. Watch children closely.
- Some sensitivity to hot and cold or mild gum soreness is common and should fade.
Cleaning under the bridge
- Clean under the false tooth every day using a floss threader, super floss, an interdental brush or a water flosser.
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. The supporting teeth can still decay.
Eating
- Avoid very hard and sticky foods, and do not chew ice.
Call our office right away if
- The bridge feels loose or moves
- Your bite feels high
- Pain, swelling or a bad taste around the supporting teeth
This handout is general information. Always follow the specific instructions your dentist gives you, which may differ from this sheet. For a medical emergency, such as trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling spreading toward the eye or neck, or bleeding that will not stop, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Content last reviewed: 2026-10.