Tips on Maintaining Dentures

Tips on Maintaining Dentures

Barotz Dental | December 7, 2015

Your teeth need to come out. When you hear those words from your dentist, it can feel hopeless, overwhelming and a little scary. Immediately, images of false teeth soaking on the nightstand in a glass of water come to mind. Maybe you’re afraid of looking old or that you will no longer be able to enjoy your favorite foods. Relax, times have changed.
Today’s dentures are made using state of the art technology. Each set, full or partial, is custom designed to fit each unique individual. Initially, there will be an adjustment period, but, afterward you can rest at ease knowing you’ve chosen the best solution to your dental troubles.
You’ve most likely reached this point because of the pain being caused by your natural teeth. Modern dentures are comfortable, functional, and integrate seamlessly into your smile. They also help to promote and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Dentures allow you to eat, support the muscles of your face, and lead a pain-free existence.
Just like natural teeth, new dentures require attention and, if cared for properly, will last a long time. Here are a few tips for extending the life of your dentures.

Denture Maintenance

•    Use caution when handling your dentures. When dropped onto a hard surface, dentures may break. When standing at a counter, use something soft, like a towel, to cushion the landing of an accidental drop. When rinsing, hold them close to the bottom of the water basin to reduce the distance of a possible fall in the sink.
•    Keep them soaking for several hours a day in either water or a special cleaning solution made for dentures. Containers shaped specifically for this purpose are available and work well. Remember to use only warm water because water that is too hot might cause damage. Overnight soaking is recommended because it allows your mouth a chance to rest.
•    Daily brushing offers denture protection just like it did for your natural teeth. After eating, food particles can cause all the same issues in dentures. Rinse after eating and brush at least once a day. Always use a soft bristle toothbrush.
•    Don’t neglect the rest of your mouth. If you have a partial denture, care for your remaining natural teeth as you should and give daily attention to cleaning and massaging your gums, palate, and tongue. Once again, remember to use only a soft bristle toothbrush.
•    Keep regular appointments with your dentist to ensure a proper fit. If your dentures are damaged in an accident, call your dentist for an immediate appointment. Let the professionals make the repairs.

Positive Attitude

Some consider the need for dentures a failure on their part or an indication that they are getting old, but dentures are a useful and effective replacement for your natural teeth.
Dentures eliminate the debilitating effects of damaged oral health, allow you to eat the foods you love, and re-open the door to your healthy, pain-free life. With proper care, dentures meet your needs and greatly improve your quality of life.
If you have questions, please contact the professionals at Barotz Dental. We are here to help you!