Dentures are a life-changing solution for those who have lost their natural teeth. They offer functional and aesthetic benefits. However, proper denture care is essential to enjoy these benefits fully. In this guide, we’ll cover crucial tips for keeping your dentures clean, maintaining them with regular dental visits, and knowing when to repair or reline them.
1. Daily Cleaning Routine for Dentures
Like natural teeth, dentures require daily cleaning to prevent plaque buildup, bad breath, and potential infections. Here’s how to keep your dentures clean and fresh:
- Rinse After Eating: After each meal, remove your dentures and rinse them with warm water to remove any food particles. This simple step helps prevent stains and plaque buildup.
- Brush Your Dentures Daily: Clean your dentures with a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush at least once daily. Avoid using regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive. Instead, use a denture cleaner recommended by your dentist.
- Soak Overnight: Most dentures need to remain moist to maintain their shape. Soak your dentures in a mild denture-soaking solution overnight. This not only keeps them hydrated but also helps eliminate bacteria and odors.
- Rinse Before Wearing: After soaking, rinse your dentures thoroughly under warm water before putting them back in your mouth. This removes any lingering cleaning solution, which could cause discomfort or irritation.
2. The Importance of Regular Dental Visits
Even if you wear complete dentures, regular dental visits are crucial. Your dentist will check the fit of your dentures, examine your oral tissues for signs of irritation or infection, and perform oral cancer screenings. These visits are vital to ensuring your dentures remain comfortable and effective.
During these visits, your dentist may also:
- Adjust the Fit: Your gums and bones can change over time, affecting how your dentures fit. Your dentist can make adjustments to improve comfort and functionality.
- Professional Cleaning: Your dentist can provide a thorough cleaning that removes tough stains and tartar that at-home cleaning may miss.
- Examine for Damage: Regular visits allow your dentist to spot any cracks, chips, or other damage to your dentures that could worsen if left untreated.
3. When to Repair or Reline Your Dentures
Dentures are durable but not indestructible. Knowing when to repair or reline them can save you from discomfort and extend the life of your dentures.
- Knowing the signs that indicate the need for denture repair can save you from discomfort and extend the life of your dentures. If your dentures crack, chip, or break, don’t try to fix them yourself. Over-the-counter repair kits can cause more harm than good. Instead, contact your dentist immediately for professional repair, and feel confident you’re taking the proper steps to maintain your oral health.
- Relining Your Dentures: If your dentures feel loose or cause sore spots, it may be time for a reline. This process involves adding material to the denture base to improve fit and comfort. Relining can be done in your dentist’s office or by sending dentures to a dental lab.
- Consider a Replacement: Dentures typically last 5 to 10 years. If they show significant wear or no longer fit well despite relining, it may be time to discuss a replacement with your dentist.
4. Avoiding Common Denture Care Mistakes
To keep your dentures in top shape, avoid these common mistakes:
- Using Hot Water: Hot water can warp dentures, so always use lukewarm or cold water for cleaning and soaking.
- Skipping the Overnight Soak: Dentures must stay moist to maintain their shape. Skipping the overnight soak can lead to warping and discomfort.
- Neglecting Oral Hygiene: Even if you wear full dentures, it’s essential to clean your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth daily. This helps prevent oral infections and keeps your mouth healthy.
Conclusion
Proper denture care is vital to maintaining a healthy, confident smile. By following a daily cleaning routine, scheduling regular dental visits, and knowing when to repair or reline your dentures, you can enjoy the benefits of your dentures for years to come.
At Shine Dental, our on-site dental lab can repair, reline, and make new dentures the same day. Ask Shine Dental to see how to stabilize your denture with dental implants. If you have any questions about denture care or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us today at (516)348-8500 or schedule an appointment here. We’re here to help you smile with confidence!
*Always consult with your Dentist: You should always seek the advice of your dentist to make sure which options are best for you. Dental conditions vary widely among individuals. Not all dental problems are visible or easily detectable. Professional cleanings are essential no matter how diligent your oral hygiene routine is. Regular dental check-ups allow for the early detection of potential issues. Dentists are trained to provide expert advice on oral hygiene and other factors that impact your dental health. Online information may need more depth and accuracy to address your specific needs.
