Dentures are an excellent way to restore your smile and your health, but to get the most out of them, they require thorough care on a regular basis. To keep your dentures and oral health in peak condition, learn more about caring for them using the steps below.

Do:

Rinse dentures after meals. 

Just like natural teeth, dentures can suffer from the presence of decaying food particles on the surface. After eating, run your bridgework under warm water to rinse away any food residue. Then, leave them to air-dry on a clean towel before reinserting. This will also make cleaning or soaking later in the day easier and more effective.

Soak dentures overnight.

Give your mouth a break for at least six hours a day to allow the tissues in your gums to recover from the strain of wearing dentures. However, leaving them exposed to open air poses a risk of bacteria settling on them. To make cleaning easier and to keep them germ-free, soak your dentures in warm water if they have metal clasps. If they’re metal-free, submerge them in a special dental cleanser to deter bacteria.

Don’t:

Use harmful cleaning materials.

Dentures can last up to seven years before replacement is necessary, according to the American Dental Association. An effective way to make them last as long as possible is to avoid abrasive or astringent cleaning materials, including:

• Stiff-bristled brushes, which can break down denture materials
• Whitening toothpaste, which will scratch and abrade dentures and cause staining
• Bleach-based cleaning agents, which will cause discoloration and tarnish metal clasps
• Hot water, as it can warp bridgework and make them uncomfortable to wear

Use sharp objects for cleaning.

Never use toothpicks, dental floss picks, or other sharp objects when cleaning dentures. These will loosen the prosthetic teeth within the acrylic gums which sit on your natural gums. Furthermore, they can scratch false teeth, causing discoloration and providing a foothold for bacteria. You should also avoid using toothpicks while wearing your bridgework, since you can easily slip and irritate or injure your natural gums.

 

If you’re in need of comprehensive care or advice for your dentures, get in touch with Harold R Arthur, D.M.D., P.A. Family Dentistry of Live Oak, FL. These caring dental experts offer a wide range of services for prosthetic teeth and bridgework, including implants, crowns, veneers, and more. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (386) 330-5181 to schedule an appointment.