If you’re a new denture wearer, congratulations! These remarkable dental appliances can be truly life-changing experiences for people who have had their teeth extracted for whatever reason. Today’s modern dentures are not only durable, they’re also much more comfortable and secure-fitting than dentures of the past. That being said, it does take some time to get used to your new “teeth,” as well as understanding how best to care for them. Cleaning your mouth and your dentures each day is every bit as important as the oral hygiene routine you likely followed with your natural teeth. And the more diligent you are about taking care of your dentures, the longer they’ll last. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your dentures.
- Follow whatever denture care and cleaning instructions are provided by your dentist.
- Think of your dentures in the same way you did about your natural teeth. We all need to brush our teeth twice a day, and that holds true for dentures as well. Using a soft-bristle toothbrush a high quality denture cleaner (available at any drug or grocery store), remove your dentures and brush them thoroughly twice a day.
- Rinse your dentures after every meal to remove any remaining food particles. Not only will this help to keep your dentures clean; it will also help them to feel more comfortable inside your mouth.
- Don’t wear them overnight. Take out your dentures each night and soak them. This is good for your dentures, and also helps to give your gum tissue a rest.
- Soak your dentures in water when you’re not wearing them. Use either clean, cool water or a good denture cleaning solution to soak them in. Never use hot water, since that can warp the appliance. And never let your dentures dry out.
- See your dentist at least twice a year. During these visits, your dentist will thoroughly inspect your dentures, as well as address any concerns you have regarding how your dentures are fitting. During these visits, your dentist will also check to make sure your gums are healthy, as well as performing an oral cancer screening when needed.
There’s no doubt that dentures can improve the quality of your life in so many different ways. But these appliances are also a major investment. So it only makes sense to take a few extra minutes each day to care for them properly. That will ensure that you get the most from your investment, and that they will continue to serve you well for many, many years to come.
