Tips for Taking Care of Your Dentures

Your dentures will last longer and look better if you take care of them properly. New dentures are recommended every 5 to 10 years, so you need your current dentures to be in good condition for quite a while. The key is to treat them gently and clean them thoroughly. If you tend to your dentures and visit your dentist regularly, they should serve you well for many years.

Safety First

Always handle your dentures carefully. Metal components can bend if handled roughly, and dentures may break or crack if they fall. When removing your dentures, always keep your sink filled with water or place a towel in the sink. Either way, you’ll need to prevent your dentures from being damaged if they happen to land in the sink.

Never soak your dentures in hot water. If the water is too hot, it can cause your dentures to warp. You need to be careful with the cleaning solutions that you use if your dentures have metal parts. Read the instructions carefully and be sure that it’s safe to be used on metal. Some cleaning agents may tarnish metal.

Keep Them Clean

Clean your dentures daily. You should clean your dentures every day the same way that you brush your teeth, but without toothpaste. Toothpaste could damage your dentures. Use a soft-bristle denture brush and warm water, along with a denture cleanser. A denture cleanser is designed to be used on dentures, whereas toothpaste is not. Many people soak their dentures, but soaking is not a substitute for brushing. Brushing dentures removes plaque that builds up on them over time. You can still use a specialized denture solution for soaking.

Remember that you also need to brush your natural teeth, gums, and tongue before reinserting your dentures. Use a fluoride toothpaste, warm water, and a toothbrush. Rinse with mouthwash after you’re finished brushing. It’s important that you maintain good overall oral health, especially when wearing dentures.

Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to visit a cosmetic dental centre in Houston, TX. As noted above, dentures should be replaced every 5 to 10 years, but that doesn’t mean they won’t need an adjustment before then. Ideally, your dentures should be comfortable enough to wear for several hours at a time. If they bother you or are painful, they may need to be refitted. It’s not uncommon for dentures to be refitted every few years. This can be done by relining or rebasing. Your dentist will have to determine the best option. Always report any changes in how your dentures feel or fit to your dentist. You don’t have to live with uncomfortable or painful dentures. Contact your dental office and make an appointment. If given the right care and attention, your dentures should remain in excellent condition for several years.