Now that you have dentures, you may be excited to get the full smile that you deserve. They’ll bring back your bite, but it’s important to treat them kindly! Your new teeth need to be cared for properly, so they can last for years to come. Whether you need a reminder or are new to this dental prosthetic, here are three easy ways to keep them in the best condition they can be.
Brush Your Dentures at Least Once Every Day
Getting food trapped between your teeth isn’t a thing of the past anymore! This can very well happen to your dentures, so it’s important to remove any stuck morsels. If you don’t, then it can lead to staining or a buildup of bacteria that can attack your gums.
The good news is that cleaning them is a simple process. Simply use a soft-bristled toothbrush (or a denture brush) with clear, gentle hand soap. You can get by doing this once a day, but twice is even better. Additionally, avoid using toothpaste as it can be abrasive. If you are in a pinch, then you can use your fingers and water, but don’t forget to brush them when you can!
You may notice that the material is quite slippery to handle when wet, so you can lay down a cloth as a cushion.
Take Your Dentures Out to Soak During the Night
Dentures are designed to stay moist, but that doesn’t mean you should keep them in all day and night. Doing this can cause a buildup of bacteria underneath them or sores, so you will need to take them out when it’s bedtime. Place them in a glass of water or a prosthetic-soaking solution to keep them from drying out. Doing this will help prevent them from cracking. Just be sure to rinse them in the morning.
Get Used to the Fit of Your Dentures
Over time, your mouth and jawbone will change. When this happens, the fit of your dentures can feel a bit off. You may notice that they feel loose or slip more often when eating and talking. It’s best to visit your dentist right away to get them relined. They’ll help get you back to a stable bite that you feel comfortable in.
Keeping these simple steps in mind while caring for your dentures can help them stay in great condition for longer! That way, you can enjoy your full, problem-free smile for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Todd Balington earned his dental degree from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. He is dedicated to helping the Denton community get the restored grins they love with dentures. By ensuring each prosthetic is made from high-quality materials, you can trust that they look and feel natural. If you want to learn how you can care for your renewed teeth, schedule an appointment or call his office at (940) 383-3300.