Most of us know what we should be doing to look after our teeth. But what happens when natural teeth are replaced with dentures?
Dentures are designed to restore your smile and confidence and function just like the real thing, but also like the real thing they need regular care and maintenance so they last long, stay free from stains, and continue to function well.
Keen to keep your smile looking like new? Don’t forget these five denture must-dos.
Rinse dentures after every meal
Just like teeth, food and plaque can stick to your dentures and cause bad breath, gum disease, or damage. Rinsing dentures after every meal will help keep them clean and damage-free. Simply rinse them with warm water or a denture cleaner to flush away any particles and bacteria.
Soak dentures overnight
In the same way, we should drink eight glasses of water a day, dentures need to stay hydrated too. If they don’t, they can lose their shape and dry out. Soak your dentures in water or a mild denture cleaning solution overnight to keep them moist and prevent warping. Before you pop them back into your mouth in the morning, rinse them with warm water.
Clean your mouth
Keeping your natural teeth, gums, tongues, cheeks and palate fresh and clean is just as important as cleaning your dentures. Use a mouthwash or salt water rinse to freshen your breath and prevent infections. For a more thorough clean, use gauze or a soft toothbrush after taking out your dentures to remove any plaque and stimulate blood circulation.
Check for damage
Just like with glasses, hearing aids or walking sticks, dentures can break or wear out over time due to regular wear and tear or accidents. Check your dentures regularly for cracks, chips, loose parts or stains. If you notice any problems, don’t try to fix them yourself – this often makes the problem worse. Contact your dentist or clinical dental technician instead.
Book regular checkups
Denture-wearers should see a dentist or clinical dental technician at least once a year for a full checkup. Regular checkups will make sure your dentures fit well and comfortably, and make sure you’re looking after them optimally.
The Denture Man is your local expert in all things dentures – it’s right there in the name! Roger Oliver, founder of The Denture Man (and The Denture Man himself) has created and fitted dentures for almost 35 years. Whether you’re looking for full dentures, partial dentures, repairs, modifications, or custom sports mouth guards, The Denture Man team is proud to provide trustworthy quality denture service every time.