When you first get dentures, you will have a strong motivation to take good care of the appliances so that they can serve you well for years. However, patients who are new to dentures may not know the best strategies to use to keep their dentures in good condition.
Your dentist will give you a thorough education on all aspects of getting used to your new dentures, including maintenance techniques. However, we’ve provided an overview of the basics below. You will want to consider day-to-day maintenance along with long-term strategies.
Denture Care: The Basics
Dentures require daily maintenance just like a biological smile does, even though the techniques used differ. Your denture care routine should consist of the following steps:
- Remove your dentures at night, and brush them using a soft-bristled brush and a gentle denture cleaner.
- Soak your dentures overnight.
- Rinse your dentures before reinserting them in the morning.
- Remove and rinse your dentures after eating.
- Always handle your dentures with care to minimize your risk of breaking them.
Of course, patients can still develop gum disease even when they are wearing dentures, so it’s important to take steps to reduce your risk of this outcome, too. Brush your gums, tongue and palate each morning with a soft-bristled brush. Doing so will help to reduce the presence of oral bacteria.
Maintaining Your Dentures Over Time
It’s just as important to follow up with your dentist for routine care after you get your dentures as it was when you had your biological teeth. You should still be monitored semi-annually by a professional for signs of gum disease. Your dentures will benefit from a thorough professional cleaning, too!
Unfortunately, the loss of jawbone tissue is inevitable for patients who wear conventional dentures, and you might find that your dentures gradually lose their fit over time. Your provider can reline them to improve that fit, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you’ve found that your dentures have become loose.
If you have any questions about any aspect of wearing and taking care of your new dentures, please reach out and ask. We want to help make your experience with dentures as positive as possible.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact the office of Dr. David Kuban today.
