Dentures are a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth, helping restore your smile, speech, and ability to eat comfortably. Whether you wear full or partial dentures, proper care is essential to keep them clean, functional, and looking their best. Well-maintained dentures also contribute to good oral health and help prevent gum irritation or infection. Here are 7 tips for how to take care of your dentures so they stay in great shape for years to come.
1. Clean Your Dentures Daily
Just like natural teeth, dentures accumulate plaque, food particles, and bacteria throughout the day. It’s important to clean your dentures daily to prevent staining, bad breath, and oral infections.
How to clean:
- Remove your dentures and rinse them under warm (not hot) water to remove loose food particles.
- Use a soft-bristled denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser, not regular toothpaste, which can be too harsh.
- Gently brush all surfaces, including the underside that sits against your gums.
- Rinse thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
2. Soak Dentures Overnight
Most dentures need to stay moist to maintain their shape. When you’re not wearing them, especially while sleeping, store them in a cup of water or a denture-soaking solution. Follow your dentist’s recommendations or the product’s instructions. Soaking also helps loosen stains and bacteria, making them easier to clean the next day.
3. Handle with Care
Dentures can break if dropped. Always handle them over a folded towel or a sink filled with water to cushion any accidental falls. Avoid bending the plastic or metal parts and never use sharp objects to remove debris.
4. Rinse After Eating
After meals, remove and rinse your dentures under running water to wash away food debris. This simple habit can help prevent buildup and keep your mouth feeling fresh.
5. Clean Your Mouth, Too
Even with dentures, it’s important to maintain your oral hygiene:
- Use a toothbrush to clean your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. This helps remove plaque and stimulate blood circulation in your gums.
- If you use denture adhesive, make sure to remove any residue from your gums daily.
6. Watch for Signs of Trouble
Keep an eye out for signs of poor fit or oral health issues, such as sore spots, red or inflamed gums, clicking or shifting dentures, and difficulty chewing or speaking. If you notice any of these, schedule a dental appointment. Dentures that don’t fit well can cause discomfort, mouth sores, and even infections.
7. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Even if you no longer have natural teeth, regular dental checkups are still important. Your dentist will check your gum health, the condition of your dentures, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.
Taking care of your dentures is simple but essential. With daily cleaning, gentle handling, and regular dental visits, you can keep your dentures in great condition and enjoy a healthy, confident smile. Proper denture care not only protects your investment but also supports your overall oral well-being.
About the Practice
Are you looking for a solution to replace missing teeth and restore your look and functionality? Here at Oldberding Dental, we can outfit you with dentures to solve your problem. Our highly trained dental team is rated as one of the best on Google. Not only that, but we have multiple financial solutions available to ease the costs of dental work on you. If you’re ready to get your oral health in great shape, schedule your appointment online or call (402) 488-2325.