A dental bridge is a fantastic way to restore your smile, but it comes with a unique challenge: cleaning the “pontic.” The pontic is the artificial tooth that sits above your gum line, and because it isn’t attached to a root, a tiny gap exists between the fake tooth and your gums.
If you don’t clean under the pontic, food particles and plaque get trapped. This leads to bad breath (halitosis), gum inflammation, and eventually, the failure of the entire bridge.
In this 2026 Guide, we will show you exactly how to maintain your bridge at home and keep your surrounding teeth strong.
Why Cleaning Under the Pontic is Critical
Unlike natural teeth, a bridge is connected. You cannot simply pass floss between the teeth. Bacteria love the dark, moist space under the pontic. Without regular cleaning, the “abutment teeth” (the natural teeth holding the bridge) can develop cavities. If those teeth decay, the whole bridge will have to be removed.
Best Tools for Cleaning Dental Bridges
To clean effectively, you need more than just a standard toothbrush. Here are the top-rated tools:
- Super Floss: This has a stiff end to thread under the bridge and a fuzzy middle to scrub away plaque.
- Floss Threaders: A simple plastic loop that helps you pull regular floss through the gap.
- Interdental Brushes: Tiny brushes designed to slide into the space under the pontic.
- Water Flossers: Uses a stream of pressurized water to blast away debris.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Under Your Bridge
Step 1: Thread the Floss
Take a piece of Super Floss or use a floss threader. Guide the stiff end into the gap between the pontic and the gum.
Step 2: Use a C-Shape Motion
Once the floss is underneath, gently wrap it around the base of the supporting (abutment) teeth. Move it up and down to clear the plaque from the sides of the natural teeth.
Step 3: Scrub the Underside
Slide the fuzzy part of the floss directly under the pontic. Move it back and forth to “shoe-shine” the bottom of the artificial tooth.
Step 4: Use an Interdental Brush
For larger gaps, an interdental brush is often more effective than floss. Dip it in water and gently slide it through the space.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride-free mouthwash to flush out the loosened particles.
Pro-Tip: Balance Your Oral Microbiome for Bridge Longevity
Cleaning physically is only 50% of the battle. The real danger to your bridge is acid-producing bacteria that hide in hard-to-reach areas.
Expert Insight: Many dental patients are now moving away from harsh chemical mouthwashes that kill “all” bacteria. Instead, they use ProvaDent. ProvaDent is a premium oral probiotic that repopulates your mouth with beneficial bacteria. This helps maintain a healthy pH balance under your pontic, preventing the growth of plaque-causing germs and keeping your gums tight and healthy around your bridge.
Common FAQs
How often should I clean under my bridge?
You should clean under the pontic at least once a day, preferably before bed, to ensure bacteria don’t sit there overnight.
Why does it smell when I floss under my bridge?
If you notice a bad smell, it’s a sign that food has been trapped there for too long and is rotting. Regular cleaning and using an oral probiotic like ProvaDent can eliminate this odor.
Can a water flosser replace traditional flossing?
While a water flosser is excellent for removing loose food, traditional floss or interdental brushes are better at “scrubbing” the sticky plaque off the tooth surface.
Conclusion
A dental bridge is a long-term investment in your confidence. By following these 5 steps and supporting your oral health with a balanced microbiome, you can ensure your bridge lasts for 15+ years.
Don’t wait for your gums to bleed—start cleaning under your pontic today!