A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic appliance designed to replace one or more missing teeth by “bridging the gap” in the dental arch. It consists of artificial teeth, called pontics, which are fused between crowns that are cemented onto the adjacent natural teeth, known as abutments. The question of whether gums grow around a dental bridge addresses the long-term interaction between the restoration and the oral tissues. Gums do not typically “grow over” a properly fitted bridge, but their health and position are fundamentally linked to the appliance’s success and longevity. The intended relationship is stable contact, where the gum tissue maintains a healthy seal against the crown margins and the pontic.
The Normal Relationship Between Gums and a Bridge
The design of a dental bridge is intended to mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth while maintaining the health of the surrounding gingiva. The structure relies on the abutment teeth, which are topped with crowns that hold the pontic in the missing tooth space. A healthy gum line should form a tight collar around the necks of the abutment crowns, protecting the underlying tooth structure and bone from bacteria.
The pontic rests gently on the gum ridge; it does not penetrate the gum tissue or jawbone. This resting contact is engineered to be close enough for a natural appearance but still allows for cleaning underneath the prosthetic. The goal is for the tissue to remain stable and sealed against the restoration, preventing plaque and bacteria from accumulating in hard-to-reach areas.
A proper fit ensures that biting and chewing forces are transferred correctly through the abutment teeth to the jawbone, not directly onto the gum tissue beneath the pontic. When this anatomical relationship is sound, the gum tissue remains firm, pink, and non-bleeding, signifying stability and a successful restoration.
Why Gum Tissue Changes Occur After Bridge Placement
Gum tissue changes around a bridge are often a response to external factors or an ill-fitting restoration. One common issue is gum recession, which involves the gum line pulling away from the bridge. This recession can expose the margins of the crown or the root surfaces of the abutment teeth, increasing the risk of sensitivity and decay.
Causes of recession include aggressive toothbrushing techniques or the progression of periodontal disease. An ill-fitting bridge margin can also contribute, as an imperfect seal may trap plaque, leading to chronic inflammation that slowly destroys the supporting gum and bone. When the gums recede, the stability and aesthetic appearance of the entire bridge can be compromised.
The gum tissue may also appear swollen or overgrown, a condition known as inflammation or hyperplasia. This is typically a reaction to plaque and food debris accumulated underneath the pontic or around the crown margins. The bacteria trigger an inflammatory response, causing the gingiva to become red, tender, and prone to bleeding. If left untreated, this gingivitis can progress to a more severe infection, which can weaken the teeth supporting the bridge. Persistent pain, noticeable gap formation, or bleeding when brushing are signs that a dentist should be consulted to address these tissue changes.
Maintaining Gum Health Around the Restoration
Maintaining the health of the gums around a dental bridge requires specialized cleaning techniques due to the fixed nature of the appliance. Since the prosthetic teeth are connected, standard dental floss cannot be passed between them to clean the sides of the abutments or under the pontic. Specialized tools are necessary to reach the areas where plaque and bacteria accumulate most easily.
Floss threaders or Superfloss, which has a stiff end, are used to guide the floss beneath the pontic to clean the gum ridge. This action sweeps away trapped food particles and plaque that would otherwise cause inflammation. Interproximal brushes, which are small, cone-shaped brushes, are also effective for cleaning the space between the abutment and the adjacent teeth.
A water flosser is a valuable tool, as it uses a pressurized stream of water to flush out debris from the hard-to-reach areas under the bridge. Consistent, daily cleaning beneath the pontic and around the abutments is the most effective way to prevent the plaque buildup that leads to gum inflammation and recession. Regular professional cleanings are also important, as they allow a dental hygienist to remove any tartar that may have formed in these complex areas.