Though your new dentures are a more affordable way to restore your smile, if you don’t take care of them, they won’t last as long as they should. Here are a few ways that you can protect your prosthetics so that you can get the most out of your investment, and your beautiful smile!
How to Care for Dentures
Properly caring for your dentures is easily the best way to ensure they last as long as possible. That’s because if you don’t, they can become irreparably damaged and require costly repairs or complete replacement. Here are some best practices for denture care:
- Only use your dentures to eat approved foods; do not use them to crunch ice or hard candies, open packaging, bite fingernails, or gnaw on pen caps, as these can break the teeth.
- Remove your dentures to clean them after each meal. Scrub all sides with a soft bristled toothbrush and either a mild hand soap or denture cleanser. Never use toothpaste on them, as this can be too abrasive and can scratch them. Rinse them well before putting them back in your mouth.
- Floss between each tooth after each meal.
- When you are not wearing your dentures, always store them soaking in either water or denture soak, as allowing them to dry out could cause irreparable damage.
- If you notice your dentures have chips, cracks, or no longer fit securely, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
- Never attempt to repair or reline your dentures yourself. This can make damage worse or make you sick if you use a household product not meant for ingestion. Always bring your damaged prosthetics to a dental professional for help.
Other Important Denture Care Tips
During the first 24 hours with your new dentures, your dentist will ask you to sleep with them in your mouth. After that first day, however, it is important that you remove them and store them in water or denture soak while you sleep. The goal is to keep them hydrated so they don’t warp or crack, but they need to stay in place during the first 24 hours to help retain their fit to your arches.
If you are having trouble getting your dentures to stay in place, you can use a temporary product like denture adhesive until you can have them examined by your dentist but be aware that prolonged use of these products is not recommended, as they are made with zinc and it is possible to absorb too much and become ill. Thus, if you find yourself unable to get a good hold, reach out to your dentist at your earliest convenience for help.
Remember, taking proper care of your new dentures is the best way to ensure they last as long as possible. Follow the above guidelines for denture success, and you’ll enjoy your beautifully restored smile for years to come!
About Dr. Kirlough
Dr. Jon Kirlough earned his dental degree from the Ohio State University College of Dentistry in 2000 and his Advanced Education in General Dentistry Fellowship at the Naval Dental Center on Parris Island. He then served as a dental officer in the Navy for three years, where he earned a Meritorious Unit Commendation and a Navy Achievement Medal. Since then, he has accumulated over 500 hours of continuing education in a wide range of topics. To schedule an appointment with Kirlough Family Dentistry, please visit our website or call us today at 440-234-2445.