Dentures are a long-term investment and the perfect solution to several oral health issues. To ensure you get the most out of them, there are important general dentistry practices to stick to. Improper care can quickly damage them, and worse, lead to new oral health complications. Stick to the guide below for the best results.

Do:

Brush and wash them.

Dentures aren’t invincible. They can break down just like normal teeth, so you’ll need to keep up your dental care routine. Brush and floss them at least twice a day and wash them out as needed to clear bacteria. Make sure not to use hot water, as it may warp the plate and affect how they fit. During your fitting, it’s wise to ask your dentist for a demonstration of how to brush and floss them. 

Soak them while sleeping.

When you climb into bed, take your dentures out and leave them in a cup filled with water and a dentist-approved solution, such as mouthwash. Your gums need to recover after wearing your dentures all day. The plates also need to stay moist and clean so they’ll be ready for use in the morning.

Don’t:

Eat aggressively.

Once you’ve adjusted to eating with your dentures, you’ll need to watch how you eat. Biting down too hard on foods or taking large bites may damage them. Instead, take small bites and chew thoroughly. Avoid chewing ice or hard candy, as these introduce harmful bacteria into your mouth and may also damage your dentures.

Use whitening products.

Many people make the mistake of whitening their dentures with artificial products. Strips, trays, toothpastes, and mouthwash with whitening chemicals can all damage your dentures. Those with high alcohol contents will also dry them out. Speak with your general dentistry professional about any products you plan on using so you know they’re safe.

If you’re interested in exploring dentures further, turn to John D. Mainwaring DDS. Based in Orange, CT, Dr. Mainwaring and his general dentistry associates are committed to keeping patients’ mouths healthy. They provide comprehensive oral care at their dental office, including cosmetic dentistry solutions. They’ll take every step to ensure your comfort and create a personalized plan to achieve the best results. Call (203) 799-6625 to schedule a general dentistry checkup and visit their website to learn more about the practice.