Regardless of how many teeth you’re missing, having gaps in your grin can detract from your daily quality of life. Suddenly, basic tasks like eating, speaking, and smiling that once were so simple become much more challenging. Not only is it harder to grind your food and enunciate words, but your altered appearance can be a real blow to your self-confidence.
Fortunately, dentures are a versatile solution that restores your ability to talk and chew more easily. To make the most of the many benefits they provide, however, it’s important to care for them properly. Continue reading to learn 3 tips to keep your prosthetics in good shape!
Care Tip #1: Brush Them Twice Daily
Even if you have no natural teeth remaining, it’s important to keep up a consistent daily dental hygiene routine to prevent problems like gum disease. That means you should remove your dentures both morning and night to thoroughly brush and floss them.
Remember that standard toothpaste can be abrasive on the materials, so it’s best to use a soft-bristled brush and mild dish soap or a special denture cleanser. Be sure to scrub all the surfaces to remove unwanted particles that hide in cracks and crevices.
Care Tip #2: Soak Them at Night
It can take about a month to adjust to wearing your dentures, but once you’ve grown accustomed to them, you might forget they’re there. You could accidentally fall asleep with them in your mouth, which may seem harmless but can actually be detrimental. Your gums need a break from the constant pressure of supporting them all day, and your prosthetics need to be taken out to be cleaned.
Once you’ve brushed them before bed, place them in a glass or container with cool water or a denture solution to kill any remaining germs. This prevents bacterial buildup and ensures that your restoration maintains its shape and continues to fit properly.
Care Tip #3: Rinse Them After Meals
When you eat with your artificial teeth, they will inevitably get dirty, and leftover food particles attract microbes that contribute to gum disease. To safeguard your smile, you should remove your dentures after every meal and gently rinse them under running water. This removes residue-building germs that cause bad breath and other oral issues. Remember to use cool or room-temperature water because heat can warp the acrylic and leave it misshapen.
Now that you know how to keep your restoration in excellent condition, you can enjoy their many advantages for years to come!
About the Practice
At Dentistry at Windermere, you and your family benefit from three skilled dentists who offer a full array of services under one roof, including dentures. They’ve been helping patients of all ages improve their smiles for over 20 years by providing fully individualized treatment plans to meet even the most unique oral needs. Plus, they combine state-of-the-art technology with comfortable amenities like blankets, pillows, and massage chairs to help you stay relaxed throughout your visit. If you’ve suffered tooth loss and are looking for replacements, you’re welcome to request a consultation on the website or call (770) 205-1212.