Dentures have been used to replace lost teeth for ages. Their use and effectiveness are demonstrated by the fact that they are still in use today. Dentures are a common choice for those who are missing many teeth but don’t want or can’t afford comprehensive dental work. Most denture wearers now have a more natural look and a more secure fit than in the past because of advancements in technology and techniques.
Dentures, unlike natural teeth, are susceptible to breakage and staining. They can also develop odours and bacterial buildup, which can be irritating and even dangerous to the wearer. To avoid further oral health problems, false teeth require daily cleaning and care by our Chapel Hill Dentist. Despite the differences from traditional oral hygiene practices, it is crucial to use the right tools and techniques.
How do you keep your dentures clean every day?
Dentures, like natural teeth, require daily cleaning. Dental appliances, on the other hand, are not cleaned in the same way that natural teeth are. Here are the methods you should use.
Remove for cleaning purposes.
Make sure you brush your false teeth at least once a day, but if they aren’t permanently fixed in your mouth, you should take them out for cleaning. Plaque can accumulate on dental appliances just like it can on natural teeth, and while dentures are not susceptible to decay, the bacteria can cause bad breath and gum disease. As a result, whenever you take your dentures out for cleaning, you should also clean inside your mouth.
Handle with caution.
Brushing your dentures should include getting all of the crevices and contours. It’s possible that the moist appliances in your hands are slick, especially if you’re moving them around. It’s possible that the appliances will break if you drop them while brushing them. Brush them over a counter where a towel has been spread to cushion the fall if you drop them. You could also brush them over a sink that has been filled with water.
Avoid abrasive materials.
Brush your dentures with a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture cleaning solution. Toothpaste and brushes with stiffer bristles are abrasive, and can cause minor cracks or scratches on the surface. Alternatively, liquid soap or dish detergent can be used instead of toothpaste or denture cleaner, but you must thoroughly rinse them before re-inserting them.
Soak overnight
You shouldn’t sleep with your dental appliances in your mouth, but you shouldn’t let them dry out either. Because they can lose shape due to a lack of moisture, soak them in a denture-soaking solution or simply a glass of cool water.
Rinse on a regular basis.
If you don’t brush your false teeth after each meal, at the very least remove them and rinse them to remove irritating and potentially bacteria-carrying food particles. After soaking them in a solution overnight, you should rinse them off because the chemicals in the solution could be harmful if swallowed.
Avoid using hot water
Do not clean your artificial teeth with hot water or soak them in it. Because these are made of plastic, they may warp if exposed to hot water.
What else is involved in denture maintenance?
In addition to daily cleanings, you should visit your dentist regularly. The dentist can examine your oral health, clean your appliances professionally, inspect them for damage, and adjust the fit as needed.
Conclusion
Dentures do not eliminate the need for proper oral hygiene. They must be cleaned and cared for in the same way that natural teeth are, though different techniques must be used. You can prevent your dentures from developing unpleasant odours and stains while also extending their overall lifespan with proper daily care.
Despite the fact that dentures do not decay like natural teeth, it is still necessary to visit the dentist on a regular basis. They can check for any changes and make any necessary adjustments while also checking your mouth for signs of other oral health problems. This is particularly true if you wear partial dentures and still have some natural teeth. You can have clean, stable, and secure dentures for a healthier, happier smile with good daily care and routine checkups.