Wearing a partial denture can help improve your smile alongside your overall oral health. However, like any dental appliance, they require proper care to stay clean, comfortable, and long-lasting.
Whether your dentures are new or they’ve been helping you smile for years, the simple habits provided below by an experienced cosmetic dentist can make a positive difference in their fit and appearance, as well as protect them from bacterial growth, plaque buildup, and any possible damage:
Clean Your Dentures (and the Rest of Your Mouth)
Appliances like false teeth may require separate products from those you use to clean the rest of your mouth. The type of product you choose is important, seeing as you’ll be using it daily.
To that end, it’s best to use a toothpaste without abrasive ingredients, as particles from such materials can cause the surface of your dentures to wear. You should also use a soft-bristled toothbrush since hard bristles can also damage the acrylic components of the false teeth.
Don’t forget about your remaining natural teeth, though! You still need to brush and floss daily to eliminate bacteria. Brushing your tongue with a soft-bristled brush is another important step.
Soak Overnight
Soaking partial dentures helps maintain their moisture and stops them from becoming brittle. When you go to bed or at any point when you temporarily aren’t wearing them, soak them in a special denture solution or plain water. Avoid hot water because it can cause warping or distortion. If you use a denture-cleaning product, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and rinse it thoroughly before placing it in your mouth again.
Rinse After Meals
After you finish a meal, take your dentures out and run them under water. Doing so will help remove pieces of food and prevent staining. It is also helpful to rinse your mouth with mouthwash or water before placing the appliance back in, as that will ensure your breath stays fresh while also slowing plaque buildup.
Avoid Certain Foods
On the subject of meals, there are some foods and drinks you need to be careful with. Hard or crunchy foods might break a partial denture, and sticky foods, like gum or dried fruits, can cling to the appliance and knock it out of place, making it more difficult to chew altogether.
Ensure Proper Handling and Storage
Always handle your dentures with care. When cleaning them, place a towel over the sink or hold them over a soft surface to reduce the risk of damage if you drop them.
When you’re not wearing the dentures for an extended period, store them in a clean, dry container to protect them from damage and contamination. However, remember to regularly clean and disinfect the storage container, or else bacteria and fungi may grow inside and contaminate the dentures.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Visiting your dentist regularly helps keep your partial dentures in good shape as well. They’ll make sure they still fit well and also check the health of your mouth and clean your natural teeth while they’re at it.
Protect Your Cosmetic Dentistry Investment
Caring for your partial dentures doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s just a matter of consistency. You can keep your smile looking its best with the right habits and regular checkups. Contact Pinnacle Dentistry to explore how we can support your overall health and ensure your dentures remain intact!
