Dentures have proven to be a marvelous way for many people to restore their smiles after the loss of one or more teeth. While these modern appliances are incredibly lifelike so that casual observers won’t notice them and so amazingly comfortable that patients often forget that they are there, they require excellent care to stay in good condition for as long as possible. Here’s how to keep your dentures in great shape so you can get the most out of your investment.
How Should I Clean My Dentures?
It’s important to clean your dentures at least once a day, but doing so twice is even better. Neglecting to clean your dentures sufficiently will allow harmful bacteria to accumulate on them and increase your risk of tooth decay and bad breath. Remember to never use hot water or harsh cleaning products, as they can ruin your dentures’ fit by causing them to warp.
To clean your dentures, take care to follow these steps:
- Before you begin the cleaning process, fill your sink with cool or lukewarm water and place folded towels across your countertop to create a cushion in case you drop your dentures.
- Using a soft-bristled denture brush and mild soap and water or an approved cleaning solution, carefully brush every surface of your appliance to remove plaque, food debris, and any lingering denture adhesive. Toothpaste is too abrasive for dentures and can leave unsightly scratches.
- Floss between the teeth attached to your dentures.
When Should I Soak My Dentures?
Your gums and your dentures must spend at least eight hours apart every day so that the mouth has time to rest and clean itself. Continuously wearing your dentures can exhaust the gums and allow harmful bacteria to multiply between your appliance and your soft tissues, resulting in bad breath, gum disease, or even jawbone erosion. Most patients remove and soak their dentures before bed. Place your appliance in a container with water or an approved soaking solution to prevent them from drying out.
How Can I Take Proper Care of My Dentures Between Cleanings?
An excellent way to help your dentures stay free of irritating food particles that can feed harmful bacteria is to remove them from your mouth and thoroughly rinse them each time after eating. This will minimize the presence of plaque and food residue over the course of the day. It’s also important to never use your dentures to open bottles or packages, as this will damage the attached crowns just as it would real teeth.
Dentures should be a long-term investment that allows you to smile beautifully and chew comfortably after tooth loss. With the proper care, your appliance can last for up to ten years before needing replacement.
About the Practice
Nu Dental delivers the finest oral health services available in Brick Township, NJ. Led by Dr. Admasu Gizachew, the staff sees to each patient receiving excellent services that effectively address their needs. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. For more tips on proper denture care, contact his office online or dial (732) 475-7535.