Denture Care

Cleaning Your Dentures

Dentures are an essential solution for those who have lost their natural teeth due to aging, gum disease, or injury. However, like natural teeth, dentures require regular care and cleaning to maintain their appearance, and functionality, and prevent oral health issues. This article will discuss the importance of daily denture cleaning, tips for cleaning dentures effectively, and common mistakes to avoid when cleaning dentures.

The Importance of Daily Denture Cleaning

1. Oral Hygiene: Cleaning your dentures daily is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene. Dentures can accumulate food particles, plaque, and bacteria, which can lead to bad breath, gum irritation, and even infections.
2. Aesthetic Purposes: Regular cleaning helps maintain the appearance of your dentures. Over time, dentures can become stained and discolored due to the consumption of certain foods and beverages. Daily cleaning helps to prevent these stains and keep your dentures looking their best.
3. Prolong the life of your dentures: Proper care and cleaning can help prolong the life of your dentures. Neglected dentures can become more susceptible to damage and may require more frequent repairs or replacement.

Storing and Handling Dentures

Proper storage techniques for dentures:

1. Clean your dentures daily: It is essential to clean your dentures every day to remove food particles, plaque, and stains. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a special denture brush designed for cleaning dentures. Avoid using toothpaste as it can be too abrasive for dentures.
2. Rinse after each meal: After eating, remove your dentures and rinse them under running water to remove any food particles.
3. Soak dentures overnight: Dentures should be soaked in a denture-cleaning solution or water overnight to keep them moist and prevent them from losing their shape. Never use hot water as it can warp the dentures.
4. Store in a covered container: When not in use, keep your dentures in a covered denture container to protect them from dust and bacteria. Make sure the container is labeled and stored in a safe place, away from pets or children.
5. Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly to ensure your dentures are in good condition and fit properly.

How to handle dentures without damaging them:

1. Handle with care: Dentures are delicate and can easily break if dropped. When handling your dentures, stand over a sink filled with water or place a soft towel on the counter to cushion any accidental falls.
2. Avoid bending or squeezing the denture: When cleaning or handling your dentures, be gentle and avoid applying too much pressure, as this can cause them to break or become distorted.
3. Use the right cleaning tools: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a denture brush to clean your dentures. Avoid using hard-bristled brushes or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the denture material.
4. Don’t attempt to adjust your dentures yourself: If your dentures are causing discomfort or don’t fit properly, consult your dentist. Never attempt to adjust or repair your dentures on your own, as this can cause further damage.

What to do if your dentures become damaged:

1. Don’t try to fix them yourself: If your dentures break, crack, or become loose, don’t attempt to repair them on your own. This can result in further damage or an improper fit.
2. Contact your dentist: As soon as you notice any damage or issues with your dentures, contact your dentist. They can assess the damage and determine the best course of action, whether it’s a simple repair or a replacement.
3. Keep the pieces: If your denture breaks, keep all the pieces in a safe place and bring them to your dentist for evaluation and possible repair.
4. Use a temporary denture adhesive: If your dentures become loose or uncomfortable, you can use a temporary denture adhesive to help hold them in place until you can see your dentist. However, this should only be a short-term solution.
5. Maintain good oral hygiene: While waiting for your dentures to be repaired or replaced, continue to keep your mouth clean by brushing your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help prevent gum disease and maintain overall oral health.

Maintaining Good Oral Health with Dentures

Maintaining good oral health with dentures is crucial not only for the longevity of the dentures but also for your overall health. Regular dental check-ups play a significant role in denture maintenance, ensuring that they fit properly, function well, and look their best.

During regular dental visits, the dentist will examine your dentures for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. They will also check the fit of the dentures, as the shape of your gums and jawbone can change over time, leading to ill-fitting dentures. This can cause discomfort, and difficulty in chewing, and may even contribute to oral health issues such as gum irritation and mouth sores.

Additionally, your dentist will closely inspect your oral tissues, including the gums, tongue, and cheeks, to identify any potential issues such as oral infections, inflammation, or oral cancer. This is particularly important for denture wearers, as their risk of developing oral health problems is often higher due to reduced saliva production and the presence of foreign materials in the mouth.

In conclusion, regular dental check-ups are essential for denture maintenance and overall oral health. They help ensure the proper fit, function, and appearance of your dentures, while also allowing for the early detection and treatment of any underlying oral health issues.

To learn more about dentures in Rochester Hills and ask your questions, give us a call at 248-650-2440 or visit our dental clinic.

Please visit our Facebook page for more information.