Properly Caring for Your Dentures
If you’re wearing dentures, keeping them clean and well-maintained is essential for comfort and longevity. Our skilled dentist in San Diego, CA, Dr. Vaheed Bayette offers expert tips on how to care for your dentures. From daily cleaning routines to storage advice, maintaining your dentures properly can prevent issues and help you enjoy a confident smile.
To learn more about how to properly take care of your dentures, contact our San Diego dental office today by calling (619) 901-0708.
How to Maintain and Clean Your Dentures
Proper maintenance of dentures is essential for their longevity, and to ensure they continue to function properly. Dr. Bayette recommends doing the following to properly care for your dentures.
Clean Dentures 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 cleanser to clean the denture thoroughly. Make sure to avoid using harsh soap or toothpaste, as these can damage your dentures. Rinse dentures before placing them back into the mouth.
Handle With Care
Dentures are delicate and can be easily damaged if handled roughly. When cleaning them, be sure to handle your dentures carefully to avoid scratching, damaging, or breaking them.
Soak Them Overnight
Soak dentures in water or a denture-soaking solution overnight can help remove bacteria and keep them clean. However, make sure you follow instructions for soaking dentures 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 San Diego dentist to have it repaired. If you try to fix broken dentures yourself it 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 that weaken dentures.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health, even if you have dentures. Dr. Bayette 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.
When to Replace Your Dentures
Knowing when it’s time to replace your dentures is crucial for maintaining your oral health and comfort. Common signs that your dentures need replacement include:
- Visible Wear: Check for signs of wear and tear, including cracks, chips, or worn-down teeth. These can impact both the function and appearance of your dentures.
- Loose Fit: If your dentures no longer fit snugly or comfortably, it may be time for a replacement. An ill-fitting denture can lead to sore spots and difficulties with eating and speaking.
- Discomfort or Irritation: If you experience persistent discomfort, soreness, or irritation while wearing your dentures, consult your dentist. This could be due to changes in your mouth or the condition of your dentures.
- Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: Difficulty in chewing or speaking, even after adjustments, may indicate that your dentures are no longer effective.
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, denture wearers should use a 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 do break, don’t 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.
Keep Your Dentures in Top Shape
Proper denture care is key to enjoying a healthy and vibrant smile. By following Dr. Bayette’s recommendations you can ensure your dentures remain comfortable and effective for years to come. Don’t hesitate to contact our San Diego, CA dental office by calling (619) 901-0708 for personalized advice and care! We’re proud to serve California patients in San Diego, La Jolla, Chula Vista and the surrounding areas.