Dentures have long been a popular choice for patients who have lost all or most of their teeth. Dentures, whether full or partial, must be cared for regularly to maintain good condition and serve you well for many years. Guelph Royal Dental Centre understands the significance of good denture care and has developed this comprehensive guide to assist you in keeping your dentures in outstanding condition.
Denture Identification
Before diving into denture care and maintenance, it’s critical to grasp the many kinds and their specific characteristics. Partial dentures fill in the gaps created by missing teeth while relying on the remaining teeth for support, whereas complete dentures replace all of the teeth in one or both arches of the mouth. Both types of artificial teeth are made of acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal, and they are intended to appear and feel like genuine teeth.
Daily Denture Cleaning Routine
Dentures, like natural teeth, necessitate frequent cleaning to remove plaque, germs, and food debris. Use the following procedures to keep your dentures clean and fresh:
- Rinse your dentures after each meal to remove any stray food particles.
- Fill your sink with water or place a towel in the sink to keep your dentures from slipping out while you clean them.
- Using a soft denture brush or a soft toothbrush, gently clean all surfaces of your dentures. Avoid using toothpaste or harsh cleaners to avoid scratching the denture material.
- Clean your dentures over the sink with mild dish soap or a denture cleaning solution suggested by your dentist.
- Rinse your dentures well with water to remove any remaining soap or cleaning solution.
Overnight Denture Storage
It is vital to store your dentures in a secure and clean location at night. Immerse dentures in water or a denture-soaking solution to keep them moist and in shape. Hot water should be avoided since it can distort denture material. Also, thoroughly rinse your dentures before putting them back in your mouth the next day.
How to Care for Your Dentures?
Dentures are delicate and can break or become damaged if not handled with care. When inserting or withdrawing your dentures, place them on a soft surface, such as a towel or a sink full of water, to lessen the possibility of their breaking if you drop them.
How to Maintain Good Oral Health?
It is critical to maintain proper dental hygiene when wearing dentures in order to keep your mouth healthy. Follow these actions to maintain good dental health:
- Brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth on a daily basis using a soft toothbrush.
- Remove your dentures for at least four hours each day to allow your gums to relax and repair.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to brush any remaining natural teeth.
- Consume a well-balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Regular Dental Exams
Even with dentures, regular dental exams are necessary for good oral health. Visit your dentist at least once a year, or more frequently if necessary, to ensure that your dentures are properly fitted and that any necessary adjustments have been made. Regular exams also allow your dentist to assess the health of your gums and natural teeth and screen for oral cancer and other potential issues.
How Often Should You See a Dentist?
In addition to routine checks, you should see your dentist if you have any of the following denture problems:
- Denture pain or discomfort
- Difficulties eating or speaking
- Denture cracks, chips, or other visible damage
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
Addressing these concerns as soon as possible can help to avoid future issues and keep your dentures operating properly and comfortably.
Understanding Your New Dentures
While dentures can considerably improve your quality of life, some complications are unavoidable. Here are some instances of common denture problems and solutions:
- Sore Spots: This problem is sometimes brought on by ill-fitting dentures or a lack of basic dental hygiene. See your dentist for adjustments and maintain regular cleaning habits to alleviate sore spots.
- Difficulty Eating: Begin with soft foods and progress to harder foods as you become accustomed to your dentures. Chew on all sides of your mouth equally to avoid uneven pressure.
- Speech Difficulties: To help your tongue and mouth muscles acclimatize to your dentures faster, practice speaking slowly and clearly, and consider reading aloud.
Common Denture Issues and Solutions
Acclimating to new dentures may take some time, so be patient. Here are some tips to help you adjust:
- Use your dentures every day to speak and eat.
- Gradually introducing more difficult dishes as your confidence improves.
- Be patient and give your body plenty of time to adjust to the strange sensation of wearing dentures.
- For proper care and maintenance, follow your dentist’s guidelines.
- Please contact your dental care team if you have any questions or concerns.
Contact Guelph Royal Dental Centre
We understand how vital it is to properly care for your dentures in order to increase their lifespan and maintain your comfort at Guelph Royal Dental Centre. If you have any questions or concerns about your dentures or need to schedule a checkup, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable team in Guelph, Canada. Make an appointment with us today to maintain your beautiful, healthy smile!
DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.