How do I maintain my dentures?
Dentures are a great investment; by taking proper care of them, they can last around 10 years. Read below to learn more about what steps you can take to maintain your dentures.
What to do
These habits can help your dentures last as long as possible:
Remove and rinse. After eating, gently remove and rinse your dentures with warm water to prevent food buildup.
Handle with care. Especially when cleaning dentures, take your time and don’t drop or bend them as they are very fragile.
Soak them overnight. Put your dentures in warm or cool water during the night to help them keep their shape.
Be selective of products. Some chemicals can harm dentures. Don’t use toothpaste or whitening solutions on your dentures, which can scratch or discolor them. Instead, use cleansers made specifically for dentures, which are gentle and non-abrasive.
Use denture adhesive correctly. Follow the instructions and use the recommended amount. When removing the adhesive, use a soft-bristled brush and light soap with water.
Brush dentures daily. Gently remove and clean dentures every day with a soft brush and a mild denture cleanser to get rid of food and plaque.
See your dentist regularly. Schedule check-ups often to have your dentures inspected and cleaned.
What not to do
Some practices can harm your oral health and your dentures. To avoid damaging your dentures:
Don’t sleep in them. Sleeping in dentures increases the risk of infection, bone loss, and restricted gum circulation.
Don’t fix your dentures yourself. If your dentures break, take them to your dentist to avoid damaging them further from trying to repair them on your own.
Don’t soak them in hot water. Soaking your dentures in hot water can bend and morph the plastic so they no longer fit properly.
We can help
The staff at Perry Dental is prepared to help you effectively maintain your dentures. If your dentures become uncomfortable, do not fit properly, are worn, or are broken, give us a call today.