Some people may ponder whether to get dentures for months or even years. When you decide to make the financial and emotional investment in dentures, you want to take care of them.
Like natural teeth, they require daily care if you want them to last. Moreover, denture maintenance also impacts the health of your mouth. If you fail to clean your dentures correctly, it can lead to stomatitis or inflammation of the gums and lips, according to the American Dental Association.
The average lifespan for dentures is five to seven years, depending on daily wear and tear as well as the quality of care. Here are some denture care tips to ensure you get your money’s worth out of your investment.
How to clean dentures
Cleaning your dentures every day is just as important as brushing your natural teeth for good daily hygiene. Here are some smart care tips:
- Remove and rinse your dentures after a meal to remove food particles.
- Soak and brush your dentures at least once a day. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush and nonabrasive denture cleanser to help remove plaque, stains, and food debris. If you use an adhesive, be sure to remove any remaining adhesive from the grooves that fit against your gums.
- Never use denture cleansers inside your mouth.
- Soak dentures overnight in a mild denture-soaking solution. Make sure you follow your dentist’s instructions for soaking dentures.
- Make sure to rinse dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth, especially if you use a soaking solution.
How to care for your mouth
Even with full dentures, it’s critical to maintain good oral hygiene. Here are some ways to ensure your mouth and gums remain healthy:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean any natural teeth and gauze or a soft toothbrush to clean your tongue, cheeks, and the roof of your mouth.
- Make sure to see your dentist for regular checkups. Your dentist can make sure your dentures fit properly and check your mouth for sores, plaque, or any signs of trouble.
- See your dentist if your dentures aren’t fitting correctly. Loose dentures can irritate your gums, cause mouth sores, and lead to infection.
Denture Don’ts
Naturally, you want your dentures to last as long as they can. However, there are certain activities and products to avoid to protect your investment, including:
- Abrasive cleaning materials such as strong cleansers or toothpaste, or stiff-bristled brushes.
- Whitening toothpastes. These products often contain abrasive ingredients that can scratch dentures.
- Products containing bleach. They won’t whiten your dentures, but they will weaken them.
- Hot water. It could warp your dentures.
If you treat your dentures well, they can last several years. If you have any questions about dentures or denture care, please call Shelby Dental. We want you to smile with confidence every day.
To schedule an appointment at Shelby Dental Center to discuss dentures and denture care, call (205) 664-1190. Our office is open Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.