Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene When Wearing Dentures

Are you looking for tips on caring for your dentures? Read on to learn more. Dentures have existed for hundreds of years and offer a fix for teeth loss, restoring appearance and oral function. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, 36 million Americans depend on dentures. These dental prosthetics are often required when several or all the teeth on a dental arch are missing. Therefore, it is important to learn about denture functionality and the proper care they require for optimum dental health and longevity.

Caring for your oral health while wearing dentures

Denture care is not about their appearance alone — it is about preserving their structure, ensuring comfort during use, and preventing oral health problems that may result from improper maintenance. Some helpful suggestions include:

Everyday cleaning rituals

Like natural teeth, dentures require just as much oral hygiene care. Brushing with a soft-bristled brush along with a nonabrasive cleanser is recommended each day to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. This prevents the denture from discoloring and makes it look clean and healthy. Good oral hygiene also reduces the risk of gum disease.

Soaking for hydration

Dentures, especially those with acrylic bases, need moisture to retain their shape. An overnight soak in a denture-cleaning product hydrates and also disinfects them, as well. Patients should remember to rinse the dentures completely before wearing them to prevent chemical irritation to their oral tissues.

Mindful handling

Dropping dentures unintentionally could cause cracks, chips, or fractures. One can prevent accidental falls by putting them on a cushioned surface. Alternatively, it is a good idea to store them in a case when not in use.

Complete oral hygiene

Denture wearers must be cautious of the soft tissue inside their mouths. The gums, roof of the mouth, and any remaining natural teeth also need careful maintenance to prevent infections like thrush (red patches under the denture). Before placing dentures in the mouth each morning, it is important to clean the gums, palate, and tongue with a soft brush to promote circulation and remove plaque. Rinsing the mouth with water after meals might dislodge some food debris trapped underneath the denture and reduce the risk of irritation and infection.

Regular dental checkups

Individuals who wear dentures ought to also get regular dentist checkups. These visits ensure that the denture fits correctly and that any problems including gum disease or changes in the jaw structure can be identified quickly. Due to the changes in the jaws, dentures must be relined or replaced every five to seven years. Getting ahead of those adjustments could prevent pain and sores from ill-fitting dentures.

Lifestyle adjustments

Understand that there is much more to adjusting to dentures than knowing how to care for them. Additionally, it requires changes in the diet. It is advisable to stay away from sticky or hard foods that could harm or dislodge the dentures. It also takes perseverance and patience to learn how to speak and eat with them.