How to Care for Dentures: Tips for Comfort & Longevity

Are you new to wearing dentures, or have you had them for a while and want to ensure you're caring for them properly? This blog is for you! 

Dentures are one way to replace missing teeth, helping you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. But just like natural teeth, they need regular and proper care to stay in great condition. Looking after your dentures isn't complicated, and a little bit of effort each day can make a big difference in how long they last and how comfortable you feel.

What Are Dentures and Why Is Proper Care Important?

Think of dentures as a set of removable false teeth. They can be a full set, replacing all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw, or a partial set, filling in the gaps where you have some missing teeth. They're usually made from a special kind of plastic called acrylic resin, or sometimes from metal.

So, why is it so important to care for them?

  1. To Keep Them Clean: Just like natural teeth, dentures can collect food particles, plaque, and bacteria. If you don't clean them, these things can cause bad breath, gum disease, and mouth infections.
  2. To Keep Them Looking Good: Proper cleaning prevents stains from things like coffee, tea, and tobacco, keeping your smile bright and natural-looking.
  3. To Protect Your Gums and Mouth: A properly cleaned denture may help reduce irritation to the gums. An unclean denture can irritate your mouth and lead to sores.
  4. To Make Them Last Longer: Dentures are an investment. Daily care helps dentures stay in good condition for longer.

Daily Care Tips for Your Dentures

Caring for your dentures is a daily routine, much like brushing your natural teeth was. Here are the simple steps you should follow every day.

1. Rinse After Every Meal

This is a quick and easy first step. After you eat, take out your dentures and give them a quick rinse under running water. This helps remove any loose food bits before they become stuck. It's a great habit to get into, whether you're at home or out and about.

2. Brush Your Dentures Daily

Brushing is the most important part of your daily routine. But don't use regular toothpaste! Some toothpastes may be too abrasive for dentures. It can cause tiny scratches in the surface of the denture, where bacteria can then hide. Instead, use a special denture cleaner or a mild soap.

Here's how to do it:

  • Hold your dentures over a folded towel or a basin of water. This is a clever trick – if you accidentally drop them, they won't break!
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a special denture brush.
  • Gently brush all the surfaces of the denture – the parts that touch your gums and the parts that act as teeth.
  • Rinse them thoroughly with water to wash away the cleaner.

3. Clean Your Mouth

Just because you have dentures, it doesn't mean you can skip cleaning your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. Before you put your dentures back in, use a soft toothbrush or a gauze pad to gently clean all the parts of your mouth that the dentures cover. This removes plaque and helps to keep your mouth healthy and fresh.

4. Soak Your Dentures Overnight

Most types of dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. When you take them out at night, put them in a denture-soaking solution or plain water. This helps to keep them from drying out and becoming brittle.

  • Tip: Always check the instructions for your specific denture. Some dentures with metal parts might not be suitable for certain soaking solutions. The dentist, like dentist Toowoomba is the best person to ask about this.

5. Never Use Hot Water

This is a big one! Hot or boiling water can cause dentures to warp and lose their shape. If your denture becomes warped, it may no longer fit properly and may need adjustment or replacement. Always use cool or lukewarm water when cleaning or soaking.

How to Handle Your Dentures Properly

Handling your dentures with care is just as important as cleaning them.

  • Don't Drop Them! As mentioned before, they can break. Always handle them over a soft surface.
  • Take Them Out at Night: Dentists, like dentist Esk, often advise removing dentures overnight to allow gums to rest. This gives your gums and mouth tissues a chance to rest and get some air.
  • Store Them Safely: When they're not in your mouth, make sure they are in a safe place where they won't get lost or damaged. Keep them away from pets and young children who might be curious.

Common Issues with Dentures and How to Fix Them

Even with the best care, you might run into a few issues. Here are some common ones and what to do about them.

Problem: My Dentures Feel Loose

Over time, the shape of your gums and jawbone can change, which can make a once-perfectly-fitting denture feel loose.

  • Solution: A loose denture can cause sores and make it hard to eat. Don't try to fix it yourself with at-home glues or kits! This can cause more damage. A dentist may recommend relining or replacing your denture to improve the fit. They can reline or rebase your denture to make it fit snugly again.

Problem: There Are Stains on My Dentures

If you're a big fan of coffee or tea, you might notice some staining over time.

  • Solution: Daily brushing with a denture cleaner and regular soaking should help prevent most stains. If the stains are stubborn, the dentist, like dentist Westridge, can give them a professional clean.

Problem: My Denture Is Cracked or Broken

Accidents happen. Maybe you dropped your denture, or it got stepped on.

  • Solution: Do not wear a broken or cracked denture! This can cause a lot of damage to your mouth. Take it to your dentist immediately. They might be able to repair it, or you may need a new one.

When to Visit Your Dentist for Denture Adjustments

Think of your dentist as your partner in denture care. Regular check-ups are essential for both your dentures and your mouth.

  • Routine Check-ups: Your dentist, like dentist Wilsonton, will check on the health of your gums and the fit of your dentures. They can spot problems you might not have noticed.
  • Sores or Discomfort: If you have persistent sores or discomfort, don't ignore it. It's a sign that your denture isn't fitting correctly and needs an adjustment.
  • When They Feel Loose: As mentioned above, if your dentures start to feel wobbly, it's time to see your dentist for a reline.

If you're looking for a great local dentist, consider QLD Family Dental – dentist Toowoomba, dentist Esk, dentist Westridge, or dentist Wilsonton. Our team at QLD Family Dental can discuss your concerns and provide advice on caring for your dentures.

Conclusion

Caring for your dentures is a straightforward process that plays a huge role in your overall health and comfort. 

By following these simple tips – rinsing after meals, brushing daily, soaking overnight, and handling them with care – you can ensure your dentures stay clean, fresh, and comfortable for a long time. Remember, your dentures are designed to help restore function and appearance, and a little daily care will help them do just that.

Questions About Dentures?

Schedule an appointment with QLD Family Dental. We can help you with cleaning tips, adjustments, or repairs to ensure your dentures are a perfect fit.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to use an adhesive with my dentures? 

A: Dentures are usually designed to stay in place without much adhesive. If you find yourself relying on more adhesive, it may be worth having your dentist check the fit.

Q: Can I sleep with my dentures in? 

A: Most dentists recommend taking your dentures out at night to give your gums a rest and reduce the risk of infections. If you are told to wear them for a specific reason, you should follow your dentist's advice.

Q: How often should I replace my dentures? 

A: Dentures may need to be relined or replaced over time, depending on changes in your mouth. The dentist will let you know when an adjustment or replacement may be required.

Source: How to Care for Dentures: Tips for Comfort & Longevity

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