If you have a dental bridge, your dentist has likely told you that flossing underneath the bridge is essential to keep the supporting teeth and gums healthy. However, many patients quickly discover that flossing under a bridge is much more difficult than flossing natural teeth.
The reason is simple: a dental bridge contains a pontic (the artificial tooth) that is attached to the neighboring teeth. Because the pontic is fixed in place, regular dental floss cannot pass between the bridge and the gum tissue the way it does between natural teeth.
As a result, plaque and food debris can collect under the bridge if the area is not cleaned properly.
Fortunately, there are several ways to clean under a bridge. Some methods require more dexterity than others.
Below are the most common techniques dentists recommend.
Why Flossing Under a Bridge Is Important
A dental bridge is supported by the neighboring teeth, called abutment teeth. If plaque accumulates under the bridge, it can lead to:
• gum inflammation
• decay of the supporting teeth
• bad breath
• bone loss around the bridge
Daily cleaning under the bridge helps prevent these problems and allows the bridge to last many years.
Traditional Method: Floss Threaders
One of the most common ways to floss under a dental bridge is with a floss threader.
A floss threader works like a sewing needle. The floss is inserted through a loop on the threader, and the stiff tip is passed under the bridge so the floss can be pulled through.
Once the floss is underneath the bridge, the floss can be moved back and forth to clean the area under the pontic and around the supporting teeth.
While effective, floss threaders require good finger dexterity and patience, particularly when trying to reach bridges in the back of the mouth.
Specialty Floss (Super Floss)
Another option is specialty bridge floss, often called “super floss.”
This type of floss has three sections:
• a stiff threading tip
• a spongy section designed to clean under the bridge
• regular floss to clean the adjacent teeth
The stiff section is used to guide the floss under the bridge, while the spongy section helps remove plaque and food debris.
Many patients find this method easier than using a separate threader, although it still requires threading the floss under the bridge each time.
Interdental Brushes
Small interdental brushes (sometimes called proxy brushes) can also help clean under some bridges.
These small brushes slide between the bridge and the gum and can remove plaque and debris from larger spaces. However, not all bridges have enough space underneath to accommodate these brushes.
Water Flossers
Water flossers are often recommended as an additional cleaning aid. They can help flush out food particles under the bridge and reduce inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue.
However, water flossers typically work best when used in combination with mechanical cleaning, such as floss or an interdental brush.
Devices Designed to Simplify Flossing
Many patients struggle with floss threaders because they require precise finger control and can be difficult to maneuver, especially toward the back of the mouth.
For this reason, flossing devices have been developed to make the process easier.
One example is The AutoFlosser, designed by periodontist Dr. Thomas Jackson. The device allows patients to guide real dental floss around bridges, implants, braces, and bonded retainers with greater control and less finger strain than traditional flossing methods.
By simplifying the mechanics of flossing, many patients find it easier to maintain consistent daily cleaning around dental work.
The Key to Long-Term Bridge Health
Regardless of the tool used, the most important factor is daily plaque removal under the bridge.
Dental bridges can last many years when patients maintain excellent oral hygiene. Cleaning under the pontic and around the supporting teeth helps prevent decay and gum disease that could compromise the bridge.
If you have questions about the best flossing technique for your bridge, your dentist or dental hygienist can demonstrate the method that works best for your specific situation.