Dentures are the tried-and-true solution to replace missing teeth because of their versatility. Regardless of how many natural teeth you have remaining, your dentist can provide a lifelike prosthetic to restore your smile’s appearance and its functionality.
However, you must care for your dentures correctly to continue making the most of their many advantages. With that in mind, read on to learn 3 ways you can help keep your new teeth in excellent condition for years to come!
Tip #1: Implement a Routine
Many people who have lost all their teeth mistakenly believe they no longer need to be concerned with daily dental cleanings. If you’ve been neglecting your daily dental hygiene routine, you’re putting your oral health at risk whether or not you wear dentures.
This is because your mouth is full of bacteria that contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. You should continue brushing your connective tissues, tongue, and any natural teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush to consistently remove plaque buildup. You should also brush and floss your dentures twice daily with mild dish soap to prevent germs from forming residue that can infect your gums.
Tip #2: Rinse After Meals
Did you know that some people missing teeth develop other health concerns? Gaps in your grin make it harder to thoroughly chew food, so you’re more likely to swallow overly large pieces that can’t be easily digested. Alternately, you might stick to softer foods that are less healthy but easier to eat and develop malnutrition.
Your new teeth restore a good portion of your original bite force so that you can enjoy a wider variety of wholesome foods to support your dental and general well-being. However, you should remove them and rinse them under gently running water after eating to avoid attracting unwanted bacteria. Be sure to use lukewarm or cool water because hot temperatures can warp the acrylic base so it no longer fits.
Tip #3: Take a Break at Night
Some patients wonder whether sleeping in their prosthetics is safe or acceptable, but it’s not usually recommended. Your new teeth rely on a firm suction against your connective tissues to remain in place all day which hinders circulation to your teeth and gums. That means your body can’t deliver essential nutrients or infection-fighting cells to prevent periodontal problems.
It’s usually better to remove your dentures at night and leave them to soak in a glass of water or a special cleaning solution to eradicate germs while you sleep.
Following these easy-care tips can help keep your restoration in good shape for the next 5 to 10+ years so you can continue to look and feel like the best version of yourself!
Meet the Author
Dr. Andrew Tadros has nearly 10 years of experience helping people of all ages enhance the quality of their lives by improving their dental health. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco. Today, he is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, so you can trust that you’re receiving quality care. He takes the time to get to know your unique concerns and then tailors treatment plans to meet them. He’s happy to refurbish your smile with durable, lifelike dentures. You can request an appointment on the website or call (469) 917-7444.