Dentures have allowed many people to enjoy having a complete and beautiful smile after extensive tooth loss. While these modern dental appliances are so incredibly lifelike that casual observers won’t notice them and so comfortable that the people wearing them sometimes forget that they are there, they require proper care to stay in good shape and last a long time. Here’s a brief overview of how to take excellent care of your dentures so they can serve you beautifully for many years.
How Should I Care for My Dentures During the Day?
Partial or full dentures need to be handled properly to be kept in good shape while preventing oral infections. A few best practices for daily use include:
- Handling your dentures with care: Be gentle when holding your dentures to avoid bending or damaging the acrylic base or any small parts.
- Thoroughly rinsing your dentures after eating: After meals or snacks, remove your dentures and place them under running water to eliminate loose particles like food debris.
- Keeping your mouth clean: After removing your dentures, brush your natural teeth and soft tissues with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Take care to remove any dental adhesive clinging to your gums.
What Kind of Hygiene Regimen Do Dentures Require?
Dentures need regular care and maintenance to stay in working order. A proper denture hygiene regimen includes:
- Creating a cushion: When you take your dentures out for cleaning, place a few folded towels over the sink’s countertop and fill the basin with lukewarm water. This will protect your dentures in case you drop them.
- Brushing your dentures every day: At least once a day, brush your dentures with an approved denture cleanser to clear away deposits like food and plaque. However, take care to rinse your dentures afterward so the cleanser doesn’t get in your mouth.
- Soaking your dentures every night: Your dentures and your gums need at least eight hours apart every day so your mouth can clean itself. Most people remove their dentures before going to bed, and soaking them in water or an approved denture-soaking solution will keep your dentures moist. This will help them retain their shape and prevent bacterial accumulation.
- Thoroughly rinsing your dentures before wearing them: Denture cleansers or soaking solutions can cause vomiting, burns, or pain if swallowed. Take care to make sure to wash away every trace of these chemicals before putting your appliance back in your mouth.
It’s also important to see your dentist for regular checkups to keep your appliance in working order. That way, your dentures can be repaired or adjusted when needed and you can receive guidance on better hygiene practices.
About the Author
Dr. Joshua Kuykendall earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, and he has received advanced training in specialties like dental implants, molar endodontics, and sleep apnea therapy. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the Greater Houston Dental Society. His office in Spring, TX offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. For more denture hygiene tips, contact his office online or dial (281) 353-9797.