How to Care for Dentures
Individuals who have suffered extensive tooth loss often rebuild their smile with dentures. Dentures can replace up to an entire arch of missing teeth to restore oral aesthetics and functions. Dentures are durable restorations that can last for many years, provided they are cared for properly.
The dentists from Staten Island Aesthetic & Implant Dentist in Staten Island, NY, encourage patients to clean, store, and care for their dentures as instructed so they can prolong the lifespan of their restoration. Here, we offer some general denture care tips that will keep dentures looking and functioning at their best.
Cleaning Dentures
Dentures are not susceptible to decay like natural teeth but still need to be cleaned regularly. Cleaning dentures prevents them from looking dirty or discolored, or taking on a foul odor. Dentures should be cleaned at least once daily, or any time they are removed from the mouth.
The best way to clean dentures is to brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Dentures should not be cleaned while they are in the mouth. Remove dentures and gently brush all surfaces, including the grooves that fit against the gums. Cleaning should remove food, dentures adhesive, and any other deposits that have built up on the dentures throughout the day.
Storing Dentures
Dentures must be carefully handled when they are not in the mouth. Although dentures are made of durable materials, they can become warped or damaged if they are not stored properly. Dentures should be removed and stored in a denture case while a person sleeps. Dentures need to stay moist to retain their shape so they should soak in water or a mild denture-cleaning solution while they are in their case. Dentures should be rinsed before they are put back in the mouth.
General Oral Health Practices
It is essential that people continue to practice good oral hygiene habits when they are wearing dentures. Whenever dentures are removed, a soft-bristled toothbrush should be used to clean any remaining natural teeth, the gums, the tongue, and other soft oral tissues. Bi-annual dental exams and cleanings are also necessary to ensure good oral health, monitor dentures, and ensure they still fit correctly.
Caring for Implant-Supported Dentures
The cleaning and storing care tips mentioned above refer to traditional dentures, which are removable. However, many patients opt to treat tooth loss with implant-supported dentures. Implant-supported dentures attach to dental implants that have fused with the patient’s jaw. Implant-supported dentures are not removable.
Implant-supported dentures are easier to care for than traditional dentures. They never need to be soaked or stored. In addition, cleaning implant-supported dentures is no different than maintaining regular oral hygiene habits. They can be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth.
Contact Us
Dentures are one of the most effective solutions for widespread tooth loss. If you are considering dentures treatment or would like more information about how to best care for these restorations, the dentists from Staten Island Aesthetic & Implant Dentist would be happy to help. To schedule an appointment, contact our dental practice online or call us at (718) 705-4434.
