Dentures offer a second chance at a beautiful, functional smile. But, they require unique care to maintain their appearance and function. Therefore, there are essential tips that you need to know on how to care for your dentures. Otherwise, you can experience unfortunate dental issues if you don’t treat them correctly.
Why Care for Your Dentures Matters
Dentures are a significant investment. They play a crucial role in your daily life. Therefore, proper care is essential for several reasons.
Neglecting your dentures can lead to oral health issues, including gum irritation and infections. Furthermore, well-maintained dentures ensure comfort and prevent discomfort, sores, and difficulty in eating or speaking. And finally, regular care keeps your dentures looking their best. This ensures you can maintain a confident smile.
Daily Denture Care
Caring for your dentures is a straightforward process. So, it’s crucial to make it a part of your daily routine.
Remove and Rinse: After eating, remove your dentures and rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove food particles and debris.
Handle with Care: Always handle your dentures gently. Use a soft towel or a basin of water to prevent damage if they accidentally fall.
Brush Your Dentures: Brush your dentures with a denture brush or soft-bristle toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleaner. Avoid using regular toothpaste. This is because it can be abrasive and damage your dentures.
Brush Your Gums and Tongue: Brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft toothbrush to stimulate circulation and keep your mouth clean.
Soak Overnight: While you sleep, place your dentures in a denture-soaking solution or clean water to keep them moist and maintain their shape.
What Happens When You Neglect Denture Care
Failing to care for your dentures properly can lead to various issues. All of these problems can lead to the improper look and function of your dentures.
Food particles and plaque can build up on your dentures. As a result, this can lead to stains and discoloration that are challenging to remove.
One unfortunate factor is the risk of infection. Dirty dentures can cause gum irritation and increase the risk of fungal or bacterial infections in your mouth. Additionally, you are more likely to develop a respiratory infection.
Neglecting your dentures can lead to changes in the fit, making them loose and uncomfortable. This can also result in more issues with eating and speech.
Poorly cleaned dentures can contribute to bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Of course, this can also increase your chances of gum disease or tooth decay in your remaining teeth.
Finally, dropping your dentures or cleaning them with abrasive materials can cause breakage or damage.
Dealing with Denture Problems
If you encounter issues with your dentures, it’s essential to address them promptly.
When your dentures become loose, consult your dentist for an adjustment. Loose dentures can lead to irritation and difficulty in eating or speaking.
For tough stains, consider professional cleaning by your dentist. Avoid using bleach or abrasive materials, as they can damage your dentures.
With damaged dentures, consult your dentist for repair or replacement. Attempting to fix them at home can lead to further damage.
If you experience persistent irritation or sores, see your dentist immediately. They can adjust your dentures or recommend treatments to alleviate discomfort.