Caring for Your Dentures
Dentures restore function and confidence for individuals who have lost their natural teeth, but they require consistent care to remain comfortable and effective. Caring for your removable teeth helps extend their lifespan and protects your oral health. Here’s more information on key practices for caring for your dentures:
Practice Daily Cleaning Habits
To maintain your dentures and aid their longevity, it is fundamental to clean them thoroughly every day. Here are key steps to establishing an effective cleaning routine:
- Rinse after meals: Always remove and rinse your removable teeth under running water after eating to eliminate food particles and debris.
- Brush daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser to clean all surfaces of your dentures.
- Handle carefully: When cleaning, hold your false teeth over a folded towel or a basin of water to avoid damage if they are dropped.
- Clean your mouth: Use a soft toothbrush or gauze to gently clean your gums, tongue, and palate, promoting optimal oral hygiene.
- Soak overnight: Place your removable teeth in water or a denture soaking solution overnight to keep them moist and maintain their shape.
Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can keep your dentures clean, comfortable, and functional, while also supporting your overall oral health.
Handle and Store Properly
Handle your dentures carefully to prevent breaks and cracks. Stand over a soft surface, such as a folded towel, when cleaning them. Dentures can break easily if dropped on hard surfaces, such as bathroom tiles or sinks.
Store your dentures in water or denture solution when they are not in use. This prevents them from drying out and losing their shape. Never use hot water, as it can warp the material and alter the fit. Keep your storage container clean by washing it regularly with soap and water. Remove your artificial teeth before sleeping unless your dentist tells you otherwise. Your gums need time to rest and recover from wearing dentures all day.
Maintain Oral Health
To maintain proper oral health while wearing dentures, it is necessary to follow a few steps. Here is a list to guide you:
- Clean your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth daily. Use a soft toothbrush or a clean washcloth to gently massage these areas. This helps remove plaque and bacteria while enhancing blood flow to your gums.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and denture adjustments. Over time, the shape of your mouth can change, which may affect the fit of your dentures. Regular professional cleanings and adjustments help prevent sore spots and promote comfort. Your dentist can also identify signs of gum disease or other oral health concerns.
- Monitor the fit of your dentures. If your dentures feel loose, cause discomfort, or produce clicking sounds when speaking or eating, consult your dentist promptly.
By adhering to these practices, you can promote proper oral hygiene and maintain comfortable, well-functioning artificial teeth over time.
Schedule Your Dentures Appointment Today
Proper denture care involves daily cleaning, careful handling, and regular dental visits. These habits keep your dentures functioning well and your mouth healthy. Make sure to follow the specific instructions from your dentist for your type of dentures. Contact a trusted dental specialist near you to schedule your denture consultation today.
