Anyone who relies on dentures to restore their smile and improve their quality of life must understand the importance of proper denture care. A dentist in Greenville, SC, says that taking good care of your dentures plays a significant role in maintaining your oral health and well-being.

a senior brushing his dentures as advised by a Dentist in Greenville SC

Why Is Proper Denture Care Vital for Maintaining Oral Health?

Like natural teeth, dentures can accumulate plaque, bacteria, and food particles, leading to problems such as gum disease, bad breath, and oral infections. Moreover, regular denture cleaning and maintenance help keep your new teeth free from harmful microorganisms and maintain a healthy oral environment.

Keeping your dentures in good condition also ensures their functionality. Ill-fitting or poorly-maintained dentures often lead to infection, discomfort, sore spots, and difficulties with speaking and chewing. In addition, they can increase your chances of developing systemic conditions, including heart disease and pneumonia.

Taking good care of your dentures also helps preserve their appearance. Over time, dentures can become stained, discolored, or worn down if not properly cleaned and maintained. Besides affecting the aesthetic appeal, stains and discoloration can make you self-conscious about your smile. In contrast, implementing proper cleaning techniques and avoiding abrasive materials preserve your dentures’ natural appearance and help you feel confident and comfortable in social settings.

Denture Care: What You Should and Shouldn’t Do

DOs

DO Remove and Rinse Dentures After Eating

After each meal, take out your dentures and rinse them thoroughly under running water. This practice helps eliminate food particles and debris, preventing staining and cleaning dentures. Removing these particles promptly minimizes the risk of bacterial growth and unpleasant odors.

DO Clean Your Dentures Daily

Use a denture brush or a soft-bristled toothbrush along with mild soap or denture cleaner to clean all surfaces of your dentures. Gently brush the dentures to remove debris, plaque, or stains. It’s important to avoid using abrasive materials because they can scratch or damage the denture surface, compromising their appearance and hygiene.

DO Handle Dentures With Care

Whenever you clean or handle your dentures, take precautions to prevent accidents. Fill the sink with water or place a towel on the counter to cushion the dentures if they accidentally slip or fall. Dentures are delicate and can break if they fall onto a hard surface. Handling them with care and providing a cushioned surface reduces the risk of damage.

DO Soak Dentures Overnight

To maintain the shape and prevent them from drying out, soak your dentures overnight. Place them in water or a denture cleaning solution recommended by your dentist. This soaking process helps keep your dentures moist, ensuring their optimal fit and comfort when you wear them during the day.

DO Brush Your Gums, Tongue, and Palate

Even though you wear dentures, caring for your oral tissues is crucial. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush your gums, tongue, and palate every morning before inserting your dentures. This gentle brushing stimulates circulation, removes plaque buildup, and maintains the health of your mouth.

DON’T’s

DON’T Use Hot Water

Avoid using hot water to clean or soak your dentures, as it can cause warping or distortion of the denture material. Instead, stick to lukewarm or cold water when handling your dentures to prevent any potential damage.

DON’T Use Abrasive Cleaners or Toothpaste

Harsh abrasives, strong cleaners, and regular toothpaste can be too abrasive for dentures. These products can create scratches, roughness, and dullness on the denture surface. Use mild soaps or denture cleaners specifically designed for denture care to maintain the integrity and appearance of your dentures.

DON’T Use Bleach or Whitening Products

Bleach and whitening products are not suitable for denture care. They can weaken the denture material and alter its color. Stick to recommended denture cleaning products your dentist provides and avoid using household bleach or other whitening agents.

DON’T Wear Dentures While Sleeping

Remove your dentures before bed to let your gums and oral tissues rest and recover from the pressure exerted by wearing dentures throughout the day. Removing your dentures at night also provides an opportunity for proper cleaning and maintenance.

DON’T Use Adhesive on Poorly Fitting Dentures

If your dentures are loose or uncomfortable, using excessive denture adhesive may seem like a temporary fix. However, it is not a long-term solution. Instead, consult your dentist to address the issue properly. Ill-fitting dentures should be adjusted or relined by a dental professional to ensure a comfortable and secure fit without the need for excessive adhesives.

a senior man at the Dentist in Greenville SC

Are You Looking for a Dentist in Greenville, SC?

By adhering to these dos and don’ts of denture care, you can maintain your dentures’ cleanliness, longevity, and functionality while promoting good oral health and overall well-being.

At Pelham Links Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we help patients reach optimal oral health using state-of-the-art methods and technology. Contact us today to request a consultation.