Our Wasilla Dentist Guides You in Maintaining Your Custom Dentures
Dentures are an excellent option for replacing teeth. However, without proper maintenance, they can become uncomfortable, ill-fitting, and cause damage to your gums and any remaining teeth.
Maintaining dentures involves regular cleaning, proper storage, and knowing when it’s time to replace them. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your dentures stay comfortable, functional, and looking their best for years to come. So, whether you’re new to wearing dentures or have been wearing them for years, it’s essential to learn how to take care of them properly.
If you have any questions or concerns about your denture care, contact our Wasilla dentist at Northwind Dental today by calling (907) 373-2440.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Dentures
Proper maintenance of dentures is essential for their longevity, and to ensure they continue to function properly. Dr. Dawson recommends doing the following to properly care for your dentures.
Clean Daily
Dentures should be cleaned daily to remove food particles and prevent the buildup of bacteria. Use a soft-bristled brush and a gentle soap or denture cleaner to clean the denture thoroughly. Make sure to avoid using harsh soap or toothpaste, as these can damage your dentures.
Handle With Care
Dentures are delicate and can be easily damaged if handled roughly. When cleaning them, be sure to handle them with care to avoid scratching or damaging the denture.
Soak Them Overnight
Soaking your dentures in water or a denture cleaning solution overnight can help remove bacteria and keep them clean. However, make sure you follow instructions for soaking and never use hot water, as it can cause your dentures to warp.
Store Them Properly
Dentures should be stored in a clean, dry container when not in use. Make sure the container has a lid and is placed in a safe location where it won’t be accidentally dropped or knocked over.
Repair When Needed
If a denture is damaged or not fitting properly, visit our Wasilla dentist to have it repaired. Trying to fix the denture yourself can cause further damage and potentially render the denture unusable.
Keep Your Mouth Clean
Just because you have dentures doesn’t mean you should neglect your oral hygiene. Brush your gums, tongue, and remaining natural teeth with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day. This will help prevent gum disease and other oral health problems.
Replace Due to Wear and Tear
Dentures aren’t meant to last forever and will eventually wear down with use. It’s important to have them evaluated regularly by a dental professional to determine if they need to be replaced. On average, dentures should be replaced every 5 to 7 years.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health, even if you have dentures. Our dentist can check your dentures for any signs of wear or damage, as well as examine your gums and remaining natural teeth. We may also recommend adjustments or replacements if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it’s not recommended to use regular toothpaste to clean your dentures. Regular toothpaste can be abrasive and damage the surface of the dentures, causing scratches and creating places where bacteria can accumulate. Instead, use a denture cleaner specifically designed for dentures, which is gentler and more effective in removing stains, bacteria, and food particles from the denture surface.
Yes, dentures can break if dropped or mishandled. Dentures are made of acrylic resin, which is a hard but brittle material that can fracture or crack under pressure. If your dentures break, do not attempt to repair them yourself, as it may cause further damage.
To prevent your dentures from becoming stained, you should avoid drinking dark-colored liquids like coffee, tea, red wine, and fruit juices. You should also avoid smoking, as it can cause discoloration and stains on your dentures.
Visit Northwind Dental for a Long-Lasting Smile
At Northwind Dental, we believe that maintaining dentures is essential to ensuring optimal oral health and quality of life for our patients. We recommend that patients clean their dentures regularly, avoid staining foods and beverages, and visit our office at least once a year for a checkup and adjustment.
If you’re looking for comprehensive dental care for your dentures, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us today by calling our Wasilla dental office at (907) 373-2440.