Proper Denture Care
Although dentures are not living bone or tissue, you can still experience problems with them if you do not care for them properly. Here are some ways that you can properly care for your dentures so that you can maintain your attractive smile and eat as normally as possible for many years to come.
Advice and Tips on Caring for Your Dentures
Even though your dentures are made from an inorganic material, they can still create an environment for plaque accumulation if you do not clean them properly. You need to be removing and rinsing your dentures after every meal to remove any remaining food particles.
Brush your dentures each day using a nonabrasive toothbrush and toothpaste. This will help to prevent the accumulation of plaque.
Dentures can be broken; so when you clean them, place a soft towel under them. That way, if you should drop them, they will be less likely to break.
- Soak your dentures overnight in warm water or a cleaning solution.
- Never let your dentures dry out, which helps prevent them from changing shape.
- Use only mildly warm water to clean your dentures, as hot water can alter their shape.
FAQ
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about dentures:
Will dentures affect the way that I eat?
You may notice some changes in the way that you bite and chew after first getting your dentures. We can help you with getting accustomed to biting and chewing using your new dentures.
How long will it take to get used to my new dentures?
It is normal for dentures to feel strange or awkward at first. They may seem overly large as well. After your oral tissues and facial muscles have adapted, your new dentures should feel more comfortable. Some patients adjust to their dentures in only a week, while some take considerably longer.
How long will my dentures last?
Most people find that their dentures last anywhere from five to seven years. As with natural teeth, dentures are expected to experience wear-and-tear, and become stained over time. Your mouth and gums are also going to be constantly changing. So it’s normal to need some adjustments to your dentures from time to time.
When To Contact Your Dentist
Contact your dentist if you experience any damage to your dentures. You should also contact them if you find that the fit of your dentures changes over time. You can come in for an appointment to have your dentures adjusted for a more comfortable fit.