The festive season is just around the corner. As tradition goes, many of us will gather with family and friends to share joys, gifts, and, of course, delicious treats. Panettone, nougat, traditional meats, and fish will grace our tables. However, before diving into the usual Christmas feasts, it’s wise to take some precautions. For instance, those with fixed prostheses like the “Toronto Bridge” should pay attention to certain foods and ensure proper cleaning of the prosthesis.
The Toronto Bridge requires meticulous maintenance and hygiene. Essentially, the cleaning technique is similar to that of other fixed prostheses, but to reduce the risk of infections in the implant’s emergence zones and gums, oral hygiene should not be neglected even for a single day. The tools to use are the usual ones: toothbrush, interdental brush, and superfloss. These should be complemented by regular check-ups and professional cleaning approximately every six months.
It is also advisable to quit smoking, as nicotine residue, which is difficult to remove even with professional tools, can significantly compromise the longevity of the implant work. In cases of immediate loading, it is preferable to avoid hard foods (like nougat, nuts, and dried fruits), as they could damage the temporary prosthesis and jeopardise the success of the implant in later stages.
Being a resin prosthesis, attention should be paid to potential staining caused by diet (coffee, tea, fruits, and vegetables) and wear over time. Additionally, avoid lateral movements, such as tearing food forcefully. If you feel the prosthesis hasn’t been cleaned properly, avoid using toothpicks, as they could damage the gums or push food towards the implant area, increasing the risk of peri-implantitis.
In short, if you have a Toronto Bridge, don’t worry: this Christmas, you can eat and drink without major concerns. At Freesmile, we remind you to take great care of your oral hygiene, especially after drinking red wine or eating tomato sauce, and to avoid tearing meat or bread with your teeth. Happy holidays from the Freesmile team!
