Dental health is vital

Caring for Your Dentures: 5 Practical Tips

by Felecia Butler

Dentures are an ideal solution for replacing your missing teeth. Besides helping you improve your smile as well as appearance, dentures will support your facial muscles to ensure they don't sag. However, the effectiveness of your dentures depends on how well you care for them. Unfortunately, many people tend to have little knowledge when it comes to denture care. Here are a few pointers to effectively caring for your dentures.

Remove the Dentures

You don't need to wear your dentures throughout. Remove them when going to bed. Doing this gives your gum tissues a break from wearing the dentures during the day and allows for recovery and healing.

Keep the Dentures Moist

Most types of dentures have to stay moist to maintain their shape. Therefore, when you aren't wearing them, such as overnight, remember to soak them in water or in a denture cleanser soaking solution. If you are soaking the dentures in water, avoid hot water to prevent warping. Also, consider whether your dentures have metal attachments. Metal attachments may tarnish when soaked in the solution. Don't worry though, because your dentist will be able to recommend the most suitable solution in which to soak your dentures.

Handle Your Dentures Above a Soft Surface

Dentures can break easily when dropped, which is why you need to be extremely careful when handling them, especially during cleaning. It's recommended that you clean your dentures over a bowl or basin of water or a folded towel. This will prevent them from breaking in case you accidentally drop them. Replacing your broken dentures can be costly.

Be Extra Careful When Cleaning the Dentures

You may already know that you need to clean your dentures every day. However, what you use to clean your dentures makes all the difference, which is something most people are unaware of. It's often recommended that you skip your regular toothpaste when it comes to cleaning your dentures. Many types of toothpaste may be too abrasive for your dentures and can damage them when used. Stick to non-abrasive cleaners such as mild dishwashing liquid or even hand soap.

Watch Out for Changes in The Fit

Dentures should fit perfectly for the best results. If your dentures become loose for whatever reason, you need to talk to your dentist. Poorly-fitting dentures usually cause problems such as sores, irritation, and infection. 

For more information, help or advice, contact a local dentist

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