Fixed Prosthesis Care Instructions

Your fixed dental prosthesis is a long-term investment in your oral health, function, and appearance. Proper care is essential to maintaining its longevity and keeping your gums and surrounding teeth healthy.

  • Brush twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a low-abrasion toothpaste.
  • Use a water flosser (Waterpik) to clean underneath your prosthesis and along the gumline. This helps remove plaque and food particles from areas a toothbrush cannot reach.
  • We recommend you use super floss or interdental brushes to clean between implants or under bridges.

Daily Cleaning

Professional Maintenance

  • Avoid excessively hard or sticky foods (e.g., ice, hard candy, caramel) that could put stress on your prosthesis.
  • If you grind or clench your teeth, wear a nightguard to protect your prosthesis.
  • Smoking can contribute to gum disease and implant failure—reduce or avoid this habit for long-term success.
To ensure the longevity of your prosthesis and maintain optimal oral health, at least yearly visits are required. In some cases, more frequent visits may be necessary, depending on your individual needs.

During these visits:
  • Your prosthesis will be removed and professionally cleaned.
  • Your gums will be thoroughly examined and treated as needed to maintain healthy tissue and prevent any issues.
  • The cost for this service is approximately $400-500 per arch per visit.

Regular professional maintenance helps prevent complications such as gum inflammation, infection, or bone loss around implants, ensuring the best long-term results for your prosthesis.

Eating and Lifestyle Tips

If you experience any of the following, contact our office promptly:
  • Bleeding, swelling, or tenderness around your prosthesis
  • Looseness or discomfort
  • Persistent bad breath or a bad taste, which could indicate an infection

Signs of Concern

For routine care and maintenance, please schedule your hygiene appointment at least once per year.

For urgent concerns, contact our office at (587) 486-9868.

For emergency assistance outside office hours, call Dr. Merrill at (587) 257-0102.

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Questions or Concerns?

You can download a PDF of our Fixed Dental Prosthesis Care Instructions below for easy reference.