Caring for Your Dentures Dentures are prosthetic devices used for replacing missing teeth. They are designed to improve a person's ability to eat, speak and smile. While some people may experience some initial discomfort, dentures can greatly improve the quality of life for those who have lost their teeth. At Gresham Dental Excellence, we understand that caring for dentures can seem intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. With the following proper maintenance and care tips recommended by our skilled professional, Dr. Cooke, your newly acquired set of dentures will last you many years with minimal effort. Rinse Dentures After EatingWhen caring for dentures, one important step you should not overlook is rinsing them after eating. Food particles left in the mouth can cause bacteria to grow, leading to bad breath, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Rinsing the dentures after eating with mild warm water effectively removes any food particles that may have become lodged between the dentures and the gums. Don't Let Dentures Dry OutIf dentures are allowed to dry out, they can become warped or cracked, which can affect their fit and function. Dry dentures can also cause irritation and discomfort to the gums and tissues in the mouth. Moreover, bacteria can accumulate on dry dentures, leading to bad breath and other oral health issues. At Gresham Dental Excellence, we suggest our patients keep their dentures moist, preferably in a denture solution, when they are not going to wear them, to help maintain their shape and prevent any adverse effects. Don't Use Toothpaste on DenturesToothpaste should not be used on dentures because it can be too abrasive and damage the surface of the denture material, leading to scratches and rough areas that can lead to bacterial growth. This can cause discoloration, odor, and other unpleasant effects. Moreover, toothpaste is not designed to effectively clean dentures, as it does not have the same cleaning agents as denture solutions. Using toothpaste on dentures can also cause a buildup of plaque and calculus, which is difficult to remove and can harm oral health. Using products specifically designed for denture care is best, such as denture cleansers and soaking solutions. Use Denture Adhesive if NeededDenture adhesive can be a helpful addition to denture care for those who need it. If dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, a small amount of denture adhesive can create a better fit and improve overall comfort. Excessive use of denture adhesive can cause a buildup that can be difficult to remove and may even cause digestive issues if the adhesive is ingested. Also, denture adhesive should not be used as a substitute for properly fitting dentures. Remove Dentures Before SleepingWhile dentures can provide many benefits during the day, we suggest removing them before sleeping at night. This is because wearing dentures for an extended period of time can lead to a variety of oral health issues. Keeping dentures in the mouth overnight can cause bacteria and other microorganisms to accumulate on them, leading to bad breath, gum irritation, and even infection. Also, wearing dentures during sleep can result in jaw pain and headaches and even cause changes to mouth structure. For additional tips on caring for your dentures, contact Gresham Dental Excellence at (971) 431-7292. |
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