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When natural teeth are lost, dentures are a great way to replace them and improve your smile as well as your ability to speak and eat. But in order to keep your dentures comfortable and functional and to prevent having to schedule regular adjustments with your go-to Morningside dentist, it is imperative that you take good care of them.

Knowing the dos and don'ts will help you maintain both your oral health and the condition of your dentures, whether you have had them for years or are just getting started. Here are some of our tips.

The Dos of Wearing and Caring for Dentures

1. Clean Your Dentures Daily

Dentures require routine cleaning to remove bacteria, plaque, and food particles, just like natural teeth. At least once a day, a soft-bristled denture brush and a denture-specific cleaner should be used to clean dentures.

After meals, we also recommend that you rinse your dentures under running water. By rinsing quickly, you can reduce the chance of staining and infections brought on by food residue.

2. Soak Your Dentures Overnight

Most dentures require moisture to stay in shape. Soak your dentures for the entire night in either plain water or a mild denture-soaking solution. This helps remove bacteria that can lead to infections or foul breath.

3. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Even with complete dentures, routine dental checkups are important. To make sure your dentures stay cozy and functional, your dentist will check your gums and how well they fit.  

Denture adjustments may also be necessary as your gums and bone structure change over time.

4. Be Patient During the Adjustment Period

It is common to experience some initial discomfort or awkwardness when wearing dentures for the first time. Getting used to eating and speaking with your dentures may take a few weeks. Still, be patient, as you’ll eventually get the hang of it and become able to enjoy all the benefits dentures have to offer.

5. Keep a Well-Balanced Diet

Consuming a wide range of nutrient-dense foods promotes the health of your oral tissues and general well-being. Choose soft, easily chewed foods, especially when you are first getting used to your dentures.

The Don’ts of Wearing and Caring for Dentures

1. Never Put Your Dentures in Hot Water

Avoid soaking your dentures in hot or boiling water, as this can cause the material to warp and become damaged. Always use cool or lukewarm water when cleaning or soaking your dentures.

2. Don’t Use Abrasive Cleaners or Whitening Toothpaste

Abrasive cleaners, including regular toothpaste and whitening products, can scratch the surface of dentures, making them more susceptible to stains and harboring bacteria. Stick to products specifically designed for denture care.

Additionally, avoid using toothpicks or any sharp objects to remove food stuck in your dentures. These can damage the dentures or injure your gums. Instead, rinse or use a soft brush to clean between the denture teeth.

3. Don’t Sleep with Dentures

Wearing dentures while you sleep can put undue strain on your gums and bones, which over time may cause irritation and accelerate the loss of bone. Your oral tissues can rest and repair if your dentures are taken out at night.

4. Don’t Ignore Soreness or Discomfort

Do not ignore sore spots, rubbing, or pain caused by your dentures. If left untreated, ill-fitting dentures can cause discomfort, ulcers, and even infections, so schedule a visit to your dentist for adjustments.  

5. Avoid Using Adhesive to Make Up for Poor Fit

Denture adhesives should not be used to make up for ill-fitting dentures, even though they can help make well-fitting dentures more stable. To ensure a proper adjustment, consult your dentist if your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable.

Take Care of Your Denture with a Morningside Dentist

Proper care and maintenance of your dentures are essential to preserving your smile and overall oral health. By following these dos and avoiding these don’ts, you can ensure that your dentures stay in great shape, fit comfortably, and allow you to enjoy your daily activities without worry.  

Remember that regular dental checkups are just as important with dentures as they are with natural teeth. If you’re due for an appointment, reach out to Wheelock and Associates Dentistry and let us know how we can help!