Tips To Care For Your Dentures

Dentures are a fantastic solution for those who have lost their natural teeth due to decay, gum disease or injury. They restore your smile, enhance your speech, and make it easier for you to eat. But, like natural teeth, dentures require regular care to remain clean, free from stains and looking their best. This blog post will provide you with useful tips to care for your dentures and maintain your oral health.

Daily Cleaning

Dentures need daily cleaning to remove food particles and prevent plaque build-up. If left uncleaned, they can stain, develop bad odors, or even cause gum disease and other oral health problems. Here's how you can clean your dentures daily:

• Remove the dentures from your mouth and rinse them under running water to dislodge loose food particles.
• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush or a denture cleaning brush along with a non-abrasive denture cleaner to gently clean all the surfaces of the dentures.
• Don't use toothpaste as it can be too harsh for the dentures and may cause scratches where bacteria and stains can build up.

Handling and Storing Your Dentures

Handling your dentures with care is essential to prevent them from falling and breaking. Always stand over a folded towel or a basin of water when handling your dentures. When you're not wearing your dentures, you should store them properly to keep them moist and to maintain their shape:

• Place your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or plain water when you're not wearing them.
• Don't expose your dentures to hot temperatures, like hot water or a hot car, as it can warp the dentures.

Regular Dental Checkups

Even if you've lost all your natural teeth and have full dentures, you still need to have regular dental checkups. During these appointments, your dentist will:

• Examine your mouth to check for any signs of oral diseases like cancer.
• Check the fit and condition of your dentures and make adjustments if necessary.
• Provide professional cleaning of your dentures, if needed.

The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is just as important for denture wearers as it is for people with natural teeth. Here are some tips:

• Brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth every morning with a soft-bristle brush before you insert your dentures. This stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.
• If you use denture adhesive, clean the grooves that fit against your gums to remove any remaining adhesive.

What to Do If You Have Denture Problems

If you experience problems with your dentures, like discomfort, sores, or difficulty eating or speaking, don't try to adjust the dentures yourself. Instead:

• Contact your dentist immediately. Most problems can be easily fixed.
• Remember, regular checkups are crucial as your mouth can change over time, which can affect the fit of your dentures.

Schedule Your Appointment in Mt. Pleasant, SC Today!

Taking care of your dentures is an important part of maintaining your oral health and your beautiful smile. If you have any concerns about your dentures or need professional help, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Dr. Andrew Clanney at Southern Tides Dentistry in Mt. Pleasant, SC, is here to assist you. Call us today at (843) 971-6552 or request an appointment online. We look forward to serving you!