Taking proper care of dentures can extend their lifespan and maintain oral health. However, if you’re new to dentures, you might not be sure exactly where to start. This extensive guide will provide tips on how to maintain dentures for long-lasting comfort and function, allowing you to get the most out of your investment.
Perform a Post-Meal Rinse
During a meal, food particles can find their way into tiny crevices in your dentures. Leaving these particles intact for long periods can lead to bacterial growth, bad breath, gum irritation, and sores. Rinsing your dentures with water after meals is a necessary habit that should become part of your care routine.
Hold your dentures securely while rinsing them, and use lukewarm water to clean the surface debris. This quick process reduces buildup and makes performing deeper cleanings much easier. Rinsing also keeps your dentures fresh between cleaning sessions.
Let Your Dentures Soak While You Sleep
Give your mouth a break while you sleep. Put your dentures in a soaking solution specifically designed for them (usually available at your local grocery store or online) so you can keep your dentures hydrated and help them maintain their original shape. If you let them become too dry, they may be uncomfortable or even brittle, resulting in cracking or premature wear.
Don’t just use water for these nightly soaks. Apply a denture-soaking solution, carefully following the product instructions. Store the denture container in a safe place at night where it will not topple over.
Minimize Dropping
Always handle dentures carefully. Dropping them on hard surfaces such as countertops or porcelain sinks can result in chips and cracks. These accidents can compromise denture functionality and affect your daily life by requiring costly repairs or replacements.
You can avoid mishaps by cleaning dentures over a folded-up towel or filling your sink with water so your dentures won’t hit a hard surface if you drop them. Gripping your dentures with slippery or wet hands risks accidental drops, so pat your skin dry before handling.
Use Gentle Cleaning Products
Another important tip for maintaining dentures for long-lasting comfort and functionality is to use the appropriate products to clean them. For example, harsh chemicals or abrasive toothpaste can damage denture surfaces, making them prone to scratches. These scratches create ideal environments for bacteria, fungi, and viruses to thrive, leading to unpleasant odors or infections.
Instead, choose soft denture brushes designed specifically for cleaning these materials. Replace traditional toothpaste with denture-specific cleaners without harmful materials. Regularly brushing dentures gently removes plaque deposits while maintaining polish, giving you better hygiene and confidence.
Keep Away From Sticky Snacks
Sticky snacks, such as caramel or gummy candies, pose challenges for those wearing dentures. These foods often latch onto the surface, pulling dentures out of place or leaving residue within crevices. These sweet treats can also put undue stress on dentures, potentially weakening them over time. Avoiding sticky, chewy foods minimizes strain and protects denture alignment and fit.
If you prefer to enjoy sweet treats, focusing on denture-friendly options diminishes discomfort. For example, many chocolate-based candies that are nut-free will not stick to your dentures as much as toffees or caramels.
Examine Your Dentures for Damage
Frequent visual checks allow you to detect denture issues. Small cracks, chips, or warping may seem minor initially but can lead to larger issues if undetected or ignored. Carefully inspect your dentures under good lighting, paying attention to areas like edges, fastening points, and the overall finish.
If something appears different or uneven, monitor it and consult your dentist for an expert evaluation. Detecting and addressing damage early avoids discomfort while improving the durability and lifespan of your dentures.
Never Try To Repair Dentures on Your Own
Though it may be tempting to fix small cracks yourself, attempting repairs without professional oversight can make matters worse. DIY fixes often involve improper adhesives or methods that negatively affect the denture structure or fit. Applying glue or other household materials introduces harmful chemicals into your mouth while compromising the durability of your dentures.
Instead, turn to licensed professionals who understand how to handle denture repairs. Leaving it in their hands will ensure your dentures receive the proper care, preserving functionality and safety. You can also avoid unnecessary expenses down the road.
Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
Even with dentures, your oral health must remain a daily priority. Forgetting to care for your mouth while focusing solely on dentures invites problems like gum irritation and bacterial infections that can compromise your health and complicate your ability to wear dentures.
Brush your gums, tongue, and remaining teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use a nonalcoholic mouthwash to refresh your mouth and eliminate bacteria that dentures may not reach. You can also try using a warm, damp washcloth to wipe down the ridge your denture usually sits on. By paying equal attention to your natural anatomy and your prosthetics, you can keep your mouth healthy for dentures.
Keep Your Dentures Away From Dogs
When you take your dentures out, keep them out of sight and reach from your dogs if you have them. Dogs love to chew dentures, and these prosthetic teeth most often end up destroyed in the process. By keeping your dentures in a safe place when you take them out, you will reduce the risk of your dog getting hold of them and causing irreversible damage.
Don’t Skip Your Dental Appointments
Regular dental appointments are instrumental in keeping your dentures functional and comfortable. Dentists can clean hidden dents and crevices and monitor changes in your oral anatomy that may impact denture fit.
Your dentist will also perform an oral cancer screening at these visits. Oral cancer may be the cause of some of your discomfort, and early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
Make time for professional evaluations at least twice a year if you still have remaining natural teeth. If you have full dentures on both the top and bottom, then a yearly dental visit is usually sufficient. During these visits, share questions you have for your dentist. Maintaining appointments supports a proactive approach, making your oral health and the durability of your dentures a top priority.
Caring for dentures requires attention, effort, and consistency. By following these tips, dentures will last longer and feel more comfortable in your mouth. If you have yet to purchase dentures, Pinnacle Dental Associates can help. Our denture services provide customers with removable and permanent dentures to suit various lifestyles. Dentures will boost your oral health and make it easier to complete daily oral tasks with confidence, including talking and chewing.