Dentures continue to be a popular way to rebuild your smile after tooth loss because of the many advantages they provide. They improve your daily quality of life by restoring your ability to eat and speak more like you used to before tooth loss. On top of that, they can enhance your appearance which boosts your self-confidence.
To continue making the most of the many benefits of having dentures, it’s important to care for them properly. Keep reading to learn about 3 common habits that damage them so you can prevent potential problems!
Issue #1: Not Brushing Them Properly
It’s not uncommon for people to forget about brushing their dentures or want to brush them while they’re wearing them. While it may be convenient to leave them in your mouth to scrub them down, doing so only cleans certain surfaces. Unfortunately, harmful bacteria love to gather in the space between your gums and your restoration. If you don’t take them out to clean them twice daily, they can thrive and eventually cause gum disease and bad breath.
It’s best to remove them so that you can access all sides. Then, you should thoroughly brush every surface, taking care to clean any grooves and remaining adhesive if you use it. Keep in mind that regular toothpaste can be abrasive and leave grooves in the material. Stick with a soft-bristled toothbrush and special denture cleaner, instead.
Issue #2: Sleeping With Them In Your Mouth
Once you’ve adjusted to your new dentures, you might find that you’ve become so accustomed to them that you forget you’re wearing them. While that may be a good thing during the day when you need them, it’s less ideal at night. Your gums need a break from the constant pressure of having them in to prevent aches and sore spots. Do your best to remember to take them out so you can clean them (and your mouth) to prevent germs from flourishing. Leave them in a glass of water or denture cleaning solution overnight to eradicate unwanted particles while you rest.
Issue #3: Skipping Routine Dental Visits
Even if you have very few or no remaining natural teeth, it’s important to visit your dentist for a checkup every 6 months. This allows them to continue to monitor your oral well-being and spot any areas of concern before they progress. They can spot early indicators of typical problems, like gum disease, as well as ensure that your restoration still fits properly and is in good condition.
Now that you know more about how to care for your dentures, you can continue making the most of them for years to come!
About the Practice
At EyeSmile Dentistry and Optometry of Belmont, you and your family benefit from a husband-and-wife duo that can provide both dental and visual services all under one roof. They’re each a specialist in their respective fields and work together to offer truly comprehensive healthcare to people of all ages. They have state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient comfort and increase clinical accuracy so that you can trust you’re in good hands. If you’re considering dentures and would like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (617) 484-7869.