How to Care for Your Dentures: Do’s and Don’ts
Dentures can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals missing one or several teeth, offering a way to restore smiles, enhance chewing functionality, and boost overall confidence. However, like natural teeth, dentures require proper care to maintain their appearance, function, and longevity. This comprehensive guide outlines the essential do’s and don’ts of denture care, ensuring your dental appliance serves you well for years to come.
The Do’s of Denture Care
Clean Your Dentures Daily
Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned daily to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup. Use a soft-bristled brush designed for dentures and a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Gently brush all surfaces, including the areas that come into contact with your gums, to prevent irritation and infections.
Soak Your Dentures Overnight
Most dentures need to remain moist to keep their shape. Soak them overnight in water or a mild denture-soaking solution as recommended by your dentist. Soaking not only helps clean your dentures but also prevents them from drying out and losing their form.
Handle With Care
Dentures are delicate and can break if dropped. Always fill the sink with water or lay a towel down when handling your dentures over a hard surface. This precaution reduces the risk of damage if they accidentally slip from your hands.
Keep Your Mouth Clean
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for denture wearers. Brush your gums, tongue, and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before inserting your dentures. This practice stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque, contributing to your overall oral health.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular check-ups are essential for denture wearers. Your dentist can ensure that your dentures fit correctly, make adjustments as needed, and check for any areas that might cause irritation or infection. Additionally, professional cleaning can help remove any tartar build-up and keep your dentures looking their best.
The Don’ts of Denture Care
Don’t Use Regular Toothpaste
Regular toothpaste is often too abrasive for cleaning dentures and can create microscopic scratches where bacteria and food can build up. Use recommended denture cleaners instead to avoid damaging your dentures.
Don’t Boil Your Dentures
While some may think boiling dentures can sterilize them, this can cause them to warp and lose their shape. Always follow the cleaning instructions provided by your dentist or the denture manufacturer.
Don’t Neglect Denture Repairs
If your dentures crack, break, or start to feel loose, don’t attempt to adjust or repair them yourself. DIY fixes can cause more damage. See your dentist as soon as possible for professional repair or adjustment.
Don’t Sleep With Your Dentures In
Unless your dentist advises otherwise, remove your dentures at night to give your gums and bone a chance to relax from the pressure of wearing them during the day. This break can help maintain your oral health and prolong the life of your dentures.
Don’t Ignore Discomfort or Changes in Fit
Your mouth naturally changes shape over time, which can affect how your dentures fit. Ill-fitting dentures can cause irritation, sores, and infections. If you notice any discomfort or changes in how your dentures fit, contact your dentist for an adjustment.
Additional Tips for Denture Care
- Use a Denture Adhesive: For some, denture adhesives enhance the fit and feel of dentures. If you use an adhesive, follow the instructions carefully and only use the amount recommended.
- Stay Hydrated: Keeping your mouth moist can help prevent irritation from dentures. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Eating a variety of foods, especially those rich in vitamins and minerals, can support your overall oral health and well-being.
In Summary
Taking proper care of your dentures is crucial for their longevity and your oral health. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure your dentures remain in top condition, providing you with a comfortable and confident smile. Remember, regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining not just the health of your dentures, but also your gums and remaining natural teeth. If you ever have concerns about your dentures or experience discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental care provider for advice and assistance.
