How To Care For Your New Dentures
Dentures are an investment in your quality of life, and their cost reflects that. You need to take care of that investment. Just like brushing your teeth is essential for proper dental hygiene, taking care of your new dentures is also important. Here's what you need to know.
Rinse
You need to remove your dentures after each meal or snack and rinse them well. This will help remove food particles and plaque. Plaque is a sticky film that can form on your teeth and gums. It is a breeding ground for bacteria. If you don't remove plaque from your dentures, it can cause gum disease and other infections in your mouth.
Brush
You should brush your dentures at least once a day. You can use a special denture brush, a soft-bristled toothbrush, and either toothpaste or a special denture cleaner. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your dentures, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces. Pay careful attention to the surfaces that rest against your gums. These are the areas where plaque is most likely to hide.
It is important to note here that dentures can be slippery. Line the sink with a soft towel so that if your dentures happen to slip out of your hands while you are brushing them, they will not get damaged from the hard fall.
Soak
You also need to soak your dentures every night. This will help remove any remaining plaque and bacteria. Additionally, dentures need to stay moist, so they do not lose shape. Your dentist may recommend a denture-soaking solution or just cool water. Never use hot water, as it can cause your dentures to warp. Rinse your dentures well in cool water before re-inserting them in the morning to remove any residual denture-soaking solution.
Oral Care
In addition to cleaning your dentures, you need to take care of your mouth. Be sure to brush your tongue and gums every day. This will help remove any plaque that has built up during the day. You should also pay close attention to your mouth for any changes, cuts, and sores. Dentures can exacerbate mouth sores and prevent them from healing properly.
Additionally, see your dentist regularly for check-ups.
Dentures are a significant investment. However, you can extend the life of your dentures and ensure you get the most out of them by taking proper care of them.
To learn more, contact a company like Dental Care Associates.