Dentures are a long-term investment, so you want to ensure they continue looking great. To avoid common complications and get the most from your new smile, learn more about how to properly care for your prosthetics below.

How to Care for Your Dentures

1. Soak Them

Denture plates can host a variety of bacteria and food particles, so soaking them is the best way to ensure you remove everything after brushing and flossing. Keeping your plates moist also ensures they won’t warp, which will change how they fit. A poor fit can be uncomfortable, damage gum tissue, and require expensive repairs, so this should be avoided at all costs.

Use a dentist-recommended sterilizing solution, and wash your hands before removing your dentures. Finally, place them in a clean glass for the best results.

2. Keep Up Dental Care Habits

Just like natural teeth, dentures are prone to decay. Bacteria will generate acids that can wear them down, so continue brushing and flossing twice a day. Removing food and other buildups will also help them stay white, fit comfortably, and keep your gums healthy. Your dentist can recommend a denture-approved toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss if needed.

3. Continue Seeing Your Dentist

Your mouth will have to adapt to the dentures at first, so stay in touch with your dentist, as they may need to make adjustments to the fit. You’ll also want to schedule two dental visits each year, during which the professional will carefully inspect your dentures and check that your gum tissue isn’t receding or being misshapen by the prosthetics.

4. Watch What You Eat

For the first few months, adopt a soft-food diet. Eating with dentures takes time to get used to, and soft foods will make it an easier transition. Going forward, avoid sticky, sugary, hard, and acidic foods, as these can damage the prosthetic and your gum tissue.

If you’re interested in exploring dentures further, contact Anderson Dental Group. With locations in Salisbury and Mooresville, NC, this practice offers a wide scope of care ranging from general treatment to cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Their staff takes a personalized approach to care and will work closely to fulfill all your current and future oral health needs. Call (704) 663-3300 to schedule a dental exam in Mooresville, and (704) 636-3611 to reach Salisbury. You can also visit their website to explore their services further, and connect on Facebook for news and updates.