Full or partial dentures can make life much easier by replacing missing teeth. But once you’ve gotten them from your dentist, they do require some care. Follow these do’s & don’ts to ensure they work for years to come.

Do:

Remove and rinse after eating.

Remove and rinse your dentures every time you eat to get rid of food particles. If they build up, they’ll attract oral bacteria.

Handle them carefully.

Dentures can easily break if dropped, so set down a towel around the sink when you brush them. You may want to put down a mat in your bathroom as well.

Additionally, partial dentures usually have clasps to hold them in place. Be careful not to bend them so they continue to fit in your mouth.

Visit your dentist regularly.

A dentist needs to examine your dentures just like your natural teeth. They’ll make sure the dentures still fit properly and comfortably. See your dentist right away if your dentures ever feel loose.

Don’t:

Leave your dentures out in the open.

Dentures may look like toys to children, so don’t leave them out within reach of little hands. Pets might chew them up too.

Use the wrong products to clean them.

Take out your dentures and gently brush them before bedtime. Use a soft-bristled brush and cleaner recommended by your dentist to remove food, plaque, and bacteria. Avoid whitening toothpastes or cleaners that contain bleach.

When you go to bed at night, put your dentures in water or a gentle denture-soaking solution. They need to stay wet to retain their shape. Don’t use hot water, as this can warp them.

Try to fix your dentures yourself.

If an issue ever arises with your dentures, leave their restoration to the professionals. While it’s possible to buy do-it-yourself kits, the glues that fix broken teeth are often toxic, so you could easily do more harm than good. Your dentist can usually fix your dentures quickly or send them to a lab for expert repair.

 

If you’re interested in dentures, turn to the friendly dentists and staff at Helmbrecht Dental in Fairbanks, AK. With over 30 years of experience, they’ll provide you and your family with services like cleanings, fillings, and denture fittings. Visit their website to find out more about their offerings, or call (907) 456-1237 to set up your first appointment.