Dentures are meant to provide you with several years of confident smiles and reliable function. Missteps in caring for them, however, can significantly shorten their lifespan and perhaps even lead to some oral health problems. Your dentist or a member of their team would be happy to coach you on how to get the most out of your prosthetic. In the meantime, this blog post provides some practical tips to help you out when it comes to caring for dentures.
Keep them Clean
Without proper cleaning, dentures can accumulate bacteria, causing them to become discolored and take on an unpleasant odor and taste. You can prevent such issues by having a thorough daily cleaning routine for your prosthetic.
- Remove them nightly, and gently brush them. Make sure you clean their underside and do not use any harsh or abrasive toothpastes.
- Soak them regularly. A denture-soaking solution can provide a deep clean. Just be sure to rinse off any residue from the cleaning solution before you put your dentures back in your mouth.
- Brush your mouth. Even if you have no natural teeth left, brushing your tongue, cheeks, and gums with a fluoride toothpaste before you wear your dentures can do much to keep your prosthetic and your mouth clean.
Handle Them Carefully
Dentures may break if they are dropped on a hard surface. When you take them out of your mouth, do so over a folded towel or a sink full of water. You should also be careful not to apply too much pressure to any one part of the denture. For example, you should not use your denture’s front teeth to bite into hard foods, like apples or raw veggies.
Store them Properly
While it might seem convenient to simply place your denture on your nightstand before you go to bed, it is important that you put in a little extra effort to store it properly. It should be placed in water or a denture-soaking solution whenever it will be out of your mouth for more than a few minutes; if it becomes too dry, it could lose its shape. Also, you should never wrap them in a paper towel when you remove them. They could be mistaken for trash and end up in the garbage can!
Visit Your Dentist
Over time, the shape of your jawbone will change, which will affect the way your dentures fit. Your dentist can reline (adjust) your denture so it continues to serve you well. At some point, though, relining them will no longer be an option. It will then be time to invest in a new prosthetic.
Caring well for your dentures can allow you to enjoy them with as few problems as possible. If you have questions about how to maintain your new teeth, your dentist will happily share their knowledge.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Gary C. Nawrocki is a general dentist in Cocoa Beach with more than 40 years of experience. He has completed advanced training in various aspects of his profession, and he is committed to helping every patient look and feel their best. Dentures are one of the many services that he offers. To learn more about Dr. Nawrocki and our practice, contact us at 321-783-7514.