Dentures are a life-changing solution for many people who have lost their natural teeth. They restore the ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. However, just like natural teeth, dentures require proper care to keep them in good condition and to maintain your overall oral health. If you’ve recently received dentures—or if you’ve had them for years—it’s important to follow a consistent routine. Here’s a guide on how to take care of your dentures so they last longer and stay comfortable.
Clean Your Dentures Daily
Plaque, bacteria, and food particles can build up on dentures just like they do on natural teeth. To prevent stains, odors, and infections, clean your dentures every day.
- Brush gently: Use a soft-bristled denture brush or a regular soft toothbrush. Avoid toothpaste, which can be too abrasive and scratch the surface. Instead, use a denture cleanser or mild soap.
- Rinse after meals: Quickly rinsing your dentures after eating removes food debris and prevents buildup.
Handle Them with Care
Dentures can be delicate and may crack or chip if dropped. When cleaning your dentures, do so over a soft towel or a sink filled with water to cushion any accidental falls. Always hold them securely but gently to avoid bending clasps or damaging the material.
Soak Dentures Overnight
Dentures need to stay moist to maintain their shape. Leaving them out to dry can cause warping, which makes them uncomfortable to wear. Place your dentures in a glass of water or a special denture-soaking solution overnight. If you use a soaking solution, rinse the dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Even if you wear full dentures, it’s important to keep your mouth clean. Brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This helps remove bacteria, improves circulation, and reduces the risk of infections like denture stomatitis (inflammation caused by fungal growth).
Watch for Fit Issues
Over time, your mouth and jawbone can change shape, which may affect how your dentures fit. If your dentures start to feel loose, cause sore spots, or make chewing difficult, don’t ignore it. Poorly fitting dentures can lead to irritation, infections, and difficulty eating. Schedule a visit with your dentist for adjustments or relining. Never try to fix dentures yourself with glue or over-the-counter kits, as this can damage them.
Avoid Harmful Habits
To keep your dentures in good condition, avoid:
- Using hot water to clean or soak them (it can warp them).
- Sleeping with dentures in (unless advised otherwise).
- Using harsh cleaners, bleach, or abrasive toothpaste.
Taking care of your dentures doesn’t have to be difficult, but it does require consistency. By cleaning them daily, soaking them overnight, maintaining your oral hygiene, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can extend the life of your dentures and keep your smile healthy.
About the Practice
Here at Advanced Dental Treatment Center, we can secure your smile with a beautiful replacement with denture solutions. With our custom-made dentures designed to fit your smile seamlessly, you can enjoy your favorite foods again with ease. We also have implant-secured options available, which act like teeth with roots to give you the closest thing to your natural teeth possible! Don’t wait – schedule your appointment online now or call our Greenfield office at (414) 209-7465.