Dentures can provide a beautiful smile and restore functionality to people who have lost some or all of their natural teeth. However, like your natural teeth, dentures require regular maintenance and care to keep them clean, comfortable, and in good condition. Here are five essential tips for taking care of your dentures to help them last as long as possible.

Tip #1: Clean Your Dentures Daily

Dentures need to be cleaned daily to remove plaque and food particles, preventing stains and maintaining oral hygiene. Here’s how you can effectively clean your dentures:

• Rinse after eating. After each meal, remove your dentures and rinse them to clear away any food debris.

• Brush your dentures. Use a denture brush or a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean all surfaces of your dentures gently. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive. Instead, opt for a non-abrasive denture cleanser.

• Soak overnight. Soak your dentures overnight in a denture cleaner or a solution of cool water and mild liquid soap. This helps to keep them moist and prevents them from warping. Never use hot water [1].

Tip #2: Handle with Care

Dentures are delicate and can break if dropped. When handling your dentures, hold them over a folded towel or a basin of water. This protects your dentures from damage should you accidentally drop them. Additionally, avoid bending or twisting the plastic or metal parts, as this can also lead to damage and cause them to not fit properly.

Tip #3: Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Even with dentures, maintaining oral hygiene is crucial for the health of your mouth. Be sure to brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth using a soft-bristled toothbrush. This stimulates circulation and removes plaque and bacteria.

It’s also important to rinse your mouth after removing dentures. After taking your dentures out, rinse with water or a mouthwash to ensure your mouth stays fresh.

Tip #4: Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups

Regular visits to your dentist are essential, even if you have full dentures [2]. Your dentist can help ensure your dentures fit well, are in good condition, and that your oral tissues are healthy. Ill-fitting dentures can cause discomfort and lead to issues like sores and infections, so proper fit and maintenance are crucial whether you have full or partial dentures.

Tip #5: Avoid Harmful Habits

Certain habits can harm your dentures, such as:

• Skipping overnight soaking. Dentures need to remain moist to retain their shape. Skipping the soak overnight can lead to warping and malformation.

• Using harsh cleaning products. Avoid bleach-containing products or strong, abrasive cleaners that can wear down dentures [3].

• Chewing on hard items. Biting nails, hard candy, nut shells, or using dentures to open packaged or bottle caps can damage them.

Taking these preventive measures will not only prolong the life of your dentures but also enhance your comfort and oral health.

Take the Best Care of Your Dentures

For personalized advice and thorough dental care, contact your dentist. Keeping up with regular appointments will ensure your dentures are in top condition and that you enjoy a confident, comfortable smile for many years to come!

Sources:

1. https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/dentures
2. https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/dental-treatments/dentures-false-teeth/
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/denture-care/expert-answers/faq-20058375