5 Essential Tips for Maintaining Healthy and Comfortable Dentures

Dentures can be essential for those seeking to restore their smiles and improve their self-confidence. However, it is important to properly care for your dentures in order to ensure that they remain healthy and comfortable. In this article, we will discuss 5 essential tips to maintain and properly care for your dentures. From the importance of cleaning solutions to brushing techniques, these tips will help keep your dentures in tip top shape.

What are Dentures?

Dentures are prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth. They allow those with missing teeth to have a more natural-looking smile, as well as improved speech and eating abilities. Dentures can be fixed or removable, and typically consist of acrylic resin and metal clasps that fit securely over the gums. While dentures are designed to last for many years, it is important to follow good oral hygiene practices in order to ensure they remain clean and comfortable.

Types

There are two main categories of dentures that you can receive at Stonebrook Family Dental depending on your individual needs:

• Partial Dentures. Partial dentures are used when some teeth are missing, but some remain. Partial dentures are an appropriate solution when the other teeth in your mouth are healthy. It is always preferable to keep your natural teeth, however, if this is not an option, a full denture may be the right solution for you. Partial dentures prevent the remaining teeth from drifting over time. A partial denture is used to replace one or more teeth, but less than an entire arch. Partial dentures are fastened by clasps that anchor the partial to your neighboring teeth.
• Full (Complete) Dentures. Full dentures replace an entire set of teeth–both lower and upper. They are customized, replacement teeth that restore your beautiful smile, correct your bite, and restore your facial appearance. Lower full dentures rest on the gums and are secured over the gums and jawbone. Upper full dentures are held in place by the suction created between the denture and the roof of your mouth.

The Process of Getting Dentures

Getting dentures can be a lengthy process. However, at Stonebrook Family Dental, we offer immediate dentures, meaning that on the day that your teeth are extracted, you immediately receive your dentures so that you never have to go without teeth. Immediate dentures will shift a little bit as the tissues heal and will need to be relined at a future visit, usually 6 months later. An immediate denture will allow you to avoid the embarrassment of living without teeth. We will begin the preparation for this procedure before your teeth are extracted.

5 Essential Tips for Maintaining Healthy and Comfortable Dentures:

1. Clean your dentures regularly

It is important to clean your dentures on a daily basis. This will help remove any food particles or bacteria that can accumulate in the crevices of the denture, and prevent bad breath. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner like denture cleaning tablets or paste. Be sure to rinse your dentures after each use of the cleaning solution and also before putting them in your mouth.

2. Soak your dentures overnight

Soaking your dentures overnight can help keep them clean, hydrated, and prevent bacteria growth. Use a denture cleaning solution or a mild soap and cold water to soak your dentures overnight in a glass or plastic container filled with enough liquid to cover the dentures completely.

3. Handle your dentures with care

It is important to be gentle when handling your dentures, as they can easily break if dropped. When not wearing them, store them in a denture cup filled with water. This will keep the dentures from warping or becoming misshapen.

4. Visit your dentist regularly

It is important to visit your dentist regularly to have your dentures checked for fit and alignment. Over time, your gums may change shape as you age, and this can cause your dentures to become loose. Your dentist can make any necessary adjustments to ensure a good fit and optimal comfort.

5. Brush your gums, tongue, and palate regularly

Just like with natural teeth, it is important to keep the tissues in your mouth clean when wearing dentures. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your gums, tongue, and palate. This will help remove any plaque buildup and keep your mouth healthy.

By following these 5 essential tips for maintaining healthy and comfortable dentures, you can ensure that your dentures stay clean and comfortable for years to come. With proper care, you can enjoy the smile of your dreams with minimal hassle or discomfort. If you have any questions about caring for your dentures, or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Stonebrook Family Dental today. We are always here to help restore and maintain your smile!