In this day and age, dentures are worn for a number of reasons, from general age-related tooth decay to a childhood accident. These custom prosthetics for your mouth can be made in full sets or as partials and are formed to fit any mouth, appearance, and budget. If you recently received dentures or are about to, learn how to care for them correctly and safely.

Do:

Soak them overnight.

Soaking dentures overnight in a cleaning solution allows them to be thoroughly cleaned and free of any bacteria that may cause bad breath or gum disease. Clean dentures are also more comfortable and easier to wear for long periods.

Brush them daily.

Soaking them alone does not ensure that they are as clean as can be. It’s still necessary to brush them at least once a day. False teeth can be left in your mouth and brushed just like natural teeth.

Schedule regular dentist visits.

Even with false teeth, you still need to visit your dentist regularly. They will make sure your dentures are fitting well and not causing any problems. Dentists also check for other oral health issues, like gum disease and oral cancer. 

Don’t:

Use sharp or rough materials for cleaning. 

While your dentures are fairly tough, they can be damaged if they’re exposed to sharp or rough materials such as hard bristled brushes or abrasive toothpaste. These will eventually wear off their protective coating and allow them to stain, scratch, or break.

Wear them to sleep.

No matter how comfortable your dentures feel in your mouth, don’t sleep in them. Even the best fitting false teeth put unnecessary pressure on your gums, bones, and other teeth. This extra pressure can not only cause discomfort and sores, but it can also change your jaw bone structure, allowing it to prematurely age and become sunken.

Let them dry out.

Whenever your dentures are out of your mouth, they should be soaking. Letting them dry out will allow them to become even more fragile and brittle. Most false teeth also need moisture to retain their shape and appearance.

Do you need dentures and a trustworthy staff to help maintain your oral health? Then look no further than Pfeiffer Family Dentistry. They are Fort Thomas, KY’s leading dentist in oral care for all ages. Give their compassionate and friendly staff a call today at (859) 441-1900 to schedule your next appointment. Visit their website to learn more about all of their services from dental check-ups to emergency dental care.