If you have had problems with missing or damaged teeth, you may be using or considering using dentures. It is important, if you haven’t already been given dentures that you know what is involved with looking after them properly, so that they last as long as possible. In the following post, we will highlight some crucial tips for doing so.

Give Them Breaks, Particularly At Night

At the end of the day, it is important that you take your dentures out before going to bed. Tissues in your mouth can recover from wearing the dentures, when you take them out. If night time is not a suitable time for you to remove them, then you should try to make 6 to 8 hours a day, at a different time to take them out. While they are out of your mouth, soak them in warm metal if they have metal clasps. If they don’t have metal clasps, use either a special denture cleanser or a mixture that is half-water, half-vinegar. Soaking dentures help to remove bacteria, tartar, plaque and stains.

Handle Them Carefully

It is likely that your dentures were fairly expensive. You need to remember that they can break easily, so you will want to be careful with them when you handle them. Clean them over a bowl of water or folded towel, just in case they slip out of your hand and fall. Avoid using toothpicks when you are wearing them and avoid hard brushes and strong cleaners to clean them. All of these can easily cause damage to dentures. Last but not least, never leave your dentures out where pets or small children can reach them.

Clean Them Every Day

Although dentures aren’t your real teeth, it doesn’t mean you should forgo cleaning them regularly. Dentures can still build up tartar and stains on them and this can still lead to bacteria. If you avoid cleaning your dentures for too long and they have a serious plaque problem, this can lead to problems with the tissues beneath them, such as irritation and infection. When you brush them, use a soft-bristled brush, but not the same one as you use for your real teeth. There are also specially designed denture cleaning brushes available. Either use dental paste, a mildly abrasive toothpaste, mild dish-washing soap or normal hand soap to clean them.

Take Care Of Your Whole Mouth

Regardless of whether you have partial or complete dentures, you still need to take care of your mouth and gums. When you take them out, you should give your mouth a thorough rinse and then massage your gums with either a soft bristled toothbrush or a washcloth. If you have partial dentures, you still need to brush and floss your real teeth every day.

Have Regular Dentist Appointments

Even if you have dentures, you still need to visit your dentist at least once every year. This gives them the chance to examine the tissues in your gum for any sores or changes that could lead to cancer. Your dentist may also be able to provide you with additional denture care and oral hygiene tips and advice.

Watch For Any Changes In The Fit

If you notice that your dentures don’t feel right or aren’t fitting properly, it is wise to check with your dentist. The bones and gums in your mouth changes over the course of time, which can cause problems with how your dentures fit. This can lead on to problems such as burning, pain and sores. It can also lead onto abdominal gas from swallowing air. Dentists can adjust your dentures. Crucially though, ill-fitting dentures could also be a sign of periodontal disease, so it is best to get it checked sooner rather than later.

If you need any further information about dentures or are looking to book appointments to get some, and live in the London area, you can contact Estetica Dental Lab.