Dentures are a popular treatment option for missing teeth because they look natural and feel comfortable after many hours of wear. When handled properly, they can last for many years, preserving your appearance. Since these devices are expensive, it’s important to follow proper denture care guidelines to ensure they don’t need to be replaced too soon. The professionals at Flathead Denture in Columbia Falls, MT, have some advice to help you protect the appliance.

5 Easy Denture Care Tips

1. Remove Them for 6 to 8 Hours Each Day

Your mouth needs time to recover from denture wear. Most people remove them before bed, but if that’s not an option, any six- to eight-hour period during the day will do. Soak the appliances when you’re not wearing them, so the material stays clean and pliable. 

2. Clean Them Every Day

Just like natural teeth, dentures can accumulate bacteria, plaque, and tartar, so it’s essential to clean them properly each day. Plaque can accumulate under the appliance and cause serious oral health issues like gum disease. Look for denture care products like brushes and specially formulated cleansers at the drugstore and use them as instructed.

3. Treat Them With Care

Dentures are fragile, so be careful when handling them. Always place them in water as soon as you remove them. If you need to carry these items to another location, then wrap them in a soft towel or handkerchief for protection. Dentures are softer than natural teeth, so don’t use toothpicks, hard brushes, or abrasive cleaners.

4. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Continue to visit your dentist at least once a year to ensure the rest of your mouth is healthy, especially the gum tissue that makes contact with the appliance. They will also inspect the dentures for signs of damage and adjust them as needed.

5. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet

Dentures can cause discomfort when chewing certain foods, which can make it difficult to get the nutrition you need. However, it’s important to maintain a diet filled with vitamin- and mineral-rich foods like fruits and vegetables. Cutting fruit into smaller pieces and cooking vegetables to soften them may make these foods easier to chew, so you get the recommended allowances of vital nutrients every day.

Following good denture care practices helps you protect your investment and enjoy a beautiful smile for many years. Whether you need a new appliance or a realignment or denture repair to make an existing pair fit better, you can count on Flathead Denture to provide high-quality service. The clinic’s no-interest financing makes it easy to achieve the smile of your dreams. Call (406) 892-0700 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about their services.