Do Dentists Need to Thoroughly Clean Teeth Before Fitting a Bridge?

Before placing a fixed dental bridge, is it necessary for the dentist to thoroughly clean the prepared natural teeth?

Hello, my original dental bridge had a hole (it was used for nearly 20 years), so I had to redo the bridge.
My first question is: the remaining two abutment teeth still have nerves, but the doctor insisted on performing root canal treatment before making the new bridge.
Is that standard practice? My second question is: before placing the bridge, the doctor used cotton with some kind of solution, claiming it was for disinfection, and then fixed the bridge with adhesive.
Although it was fine that there was no adjustment period before securing it, the doctor only lightly wiped the prepared abutment teeth with cotton before placing the bridge.
Could this lead to rapid decay due to the teeth not being completely clean before the bridge was placed? After all, my previous bridge lasted 20 years without decay, but I can no longer find the original dentist.
This experience has made me a bit worried; could the dentist's handling lead to decay under the new bridge? Or is it that as long as the bond is tight, the cleanliness before placing the bridge is not too critical? Thank you very much for your patience and for taking the time to answer my questions.

Ms. Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/29

Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan reply Dentistry

Dear online user, based on your description, your dental bridge needs to be remade due to a hole.
Whether the supporting natural tooth requires root canal treatment can be assessed by a dentist after examining the actual condition of your teeth.
Before securing the fixed dental bridge, the dentist will evaluate and check the condition of your mouth to properly bond it in place.
After the bridge is secured, it is recommended that you maintain good oral hygiene and monitor the condition of the bridge.
If you experience any discomfort, please consult the treating dentist for further examination and management.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2016/02/29

More Info

When it comes to fitting a dental bridge, the cleanliness of the underlying teeth is indeed a critical factor that dentists must consider. Your concerns about the thorough cleaning of the remaining natural teeth before placing a new bridge are valid and reflect a common question among patients undergoing similar procedures.

Firstly, regarding the necessity of root canal treatment for the remaining teeth that have been reduced in size, it is often recommended when there is a risk of infection or if the tooth has been significantly compromised. If the nerves are still intact but the teeth are structurally weakened, a root canal may be necessary to prevent future complications, such as pain or abscess formation. Your dentist's insistence on this treatment likely stems from a desire to ensure the longevity and health of the bridge and the supporting teeth.

As for the cleaning process before fitting the bridge, it is essential that the dentist performs a thorough cleaning of the prepared teeth. While it is true that achieving a completely sterile environment in the mouth is impossible, the goal is to minimize bacterial load as much as possible. The use of a disinfectant solution on the cotton used by your dentist is a standard practice, but it should ideally be accompanied by more comprehensive cleaning measures, such as scaling and polishing the teeth to remove plaque and debris.

Your concern about the potential for rapid decay under the bridge due to inadequate cleaning is well-founded. If the underlying teeth are not properly cleaned, there is a risk that bacteria could thrive in the space between the bridge and the teeth, leading to decay. This is particularly concerning given your previous experience with a bridge that lasted 20 years without issues. The longevity of dental restorations often depends on the quality of the initial preparation and the ongoing oral hygiene practices of the patient.

In terms of whether the adhesion of the bridge is sufficient to prevent decay if the teeth are not perfectly clean, it is important to note that while a good seal can help reduce the risk of decay, it does not eliminate it entirely. Bacteria can still infiltrate any microscopic gaps that may exist, especially if the underlying teeth are not optimally prepared.

To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene after the bridge is placed. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential, as they allow your dentist to monitor the health of the bridge and the supporting teeth. Additionally, using tools like interdental brushes or super floss can help keep the area around the bridge clean, especially in the first few weeks after placement when the gums may be healing.

In conclusion, while your dentist's approach may have included some cleaning and disinfection, it is vital that thorough cleaning is performed before fitting a dental bridge to minimize the risk of decay and ensure the longevity of the restoration. If you have ongoing concerns about your dental care, it is advisable to discuss them directly with your dentist, who can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.

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