Whether you have partial or full dentures, they require close attention and proper care to keep them clean, well fit, and attractive. If you’re new to prosthodontics, you may not be totally comfortable handling your dentures. To get you started, here are five useful tips.
Essential Denture Cleaning Tips
- Remove and rinse after eating: To avoid harmful buildup, always remove your dentures and rinse them after every meal or snack. Do not overlook this crucial step; when dentures become infested with plaque, it can cause irritation and infection in the tissues underneath.
- Wash your mouth before putting dentures back in: Make sure your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth are clean before reinserting your dentures. Failing to do so could trap harmful bacteria in your mouth.
- Gently brush at least once a day: Like real teeth, dentures must be carefully cleaned on a daily basis. However, dentures should not be brushed while they are inside the mouth. Remove the dentures and scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a denture cleanser — regular toothpaste is not designed to clean dentures and could cause damage.
- Soak overnight: Most types of dentures need to stay moist at all times to retain their shape. Consult your dentist on the type of solution you should use to soak your dentures; some simply need to sit in water overnight.
- Avoid bleach and abrasive materials: Bleaching products can weaken dentures and alter their color. Additionally, dentures with metal attachments should not soak in a solution containing chlorine, which can corrode the metal. Do not brush with a stiff-bristled brush as this can scratch and damage dentures.
Over 50% of surveyed U.S. adults over age 50 believe that a smile is the one physical feature that stays the most attractive as we age. And losing your natural teeth does not have to change that. Cosmetic dentistry services are available to keep your smile full and bright throughout every stage of your life. By taking proper care of your dentures, you can be proud of your pearly whites each and every day.
