Explaining Denture Care and Maintenance for the Newly Initiated

Thirty-six million Americans have no teeth, and 120 million have at least one tooth missing in their mouths. Ninety percent of people without teeth use dentures to represent an estimated 15 percent of edentulous people in America.

The dentures being used are non-implant retained or implant-retained appliances. The denture base is made from the resin or metal, and the teeth from porcelain or polymer. Different factors are considered when deciding between denture options, which may include bone loss, the number of teeth that need replacing, the patient’s needs, and preferences.

People starting to wear dentures for the first time usually have incomplete information on how their dental appliances should be cared for and maintained. To clarify some confusion, we are publishing this blog with all information on denture care and maintenance.

How to Take Care of Dentures?

Dentures in Raritan, NJ, besides directing the fabrication of dentures, also provide information to their patients on proper care and use of the dental appliances. Patients are informed to retain their dentures in denture cleanser or water when they are not worn because it helps the denture keep its shape and remain pliable. Hot or boiling water must never be used to store dentures as it can cause them to warp.

Denture hygiene is also essential as partial or full dentures can accumulate stains, plaque, and tartar. If cleaning dentures do not receive proper attention, the accumulated biofilm contributes to problems in the mouth like denture-related stomatitis. It is why cleaning dentures are recommended by the American College of prosthodontists by soaking them and brushing with a practical and nonabrasive denture cleanser. Proceeding with the cleaning as recommended reduces the levels of biofilm besides harmful bacteria and fungi.

What Is the Proper Way to Clean Dentures?

Your dentures need cleaning every day, just like your natural teeth. You must remove the dentures from your mouth to clean them unless you have a fixed partial denture. Proper denture care and cleaning must include:

• Brushing your tongue, the roof of your mouth, and gums beside any remaining natural teeth every morning and night with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Cleaning your dentures over a towel on the bathroom counter or a sink filled with water. Using this method ensures dentures are less likely to break if accidentally dropped.
• You must apply some hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid to a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for dentures for the cleaning. Do not use toothpaste or a regular toothbrush as they can be abrasive, and the plastic material can develop scratches on the dentures.
• If not wearing the dentures right away, leave them in a container of cold water or a denture cleanser.
• Rinse the dentures after brushing and soaking to remove any remnants of the cleaning solution.

How to Care for Dentures at Night?

During the night, it would be best if you removed the dentures from your mouth and soaked the appliances overnight to keep them moist and retain their shape. You can place the dentures in water or mild denture-soaking solution. Discuss proper soaking techniques for your dentures overnight with your dentist and follow the instructions provided for soaking and cleaning your dental appliances appropriately.

Before returning your artificial teeth to your mouth in the morning, rinse the dentures thoroughly, especially if they have been stored in the denture-soaking solution. These solutions are made up of harmful chemicals that can cause pain, burns, and vomiting if they are swallowed.

Your dentures also need professional cleaning and exams after you begin wearing them. Your dentist recommends how frequently you must visit the dental facility for the exams and cleanings. During these dental visits, the dentist helps you to ensure a proper fit, prevent slippage and discomfort. The dentist checks the inside of your mouth to make sure it is healthy.

If your dentures loosen for any reason, you must see your dentist promptly because loose dentures cause irritation, infection, and sores. Denture wearers must take proper care of their dentures to avoid damaging them because it can cause them to seek replacements far earlier than expected. Dentures only have a lifespan of about five years, but with proper care and maintenance, people can sometimes prolong their lifespan before getting replacements for their mouths.