Our Slidell Dentist Guides You in Maintaining Your Custom Dentures
Dentures are an excellent option for replacing teeth. However, without correct denture care and proper maintenance, they can become uncomfortable and ill-fitting, causing damage to your gums and any remaining teeth. Make sure to follow the denture care instructions given to you by our dentist, ensuring your dentures stay in great shape and last as long as possible.
If you have any questions or concerns about your denture care, contact our Slidell dentist at Off the Trace Dental today by calling (985) 214-2844.
Importance of Denture Care
Importance of Denture CareDenture care is crucial for maintaining the overall health and well-being of denture wearers. Proper denture care can help prevent a range of issues, including denture stomatitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the tissues surrounding the denture. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can lead to bad breath, gum disease, and denture decay. Furthermore, good denture care can help ensure a comfortable and secure fit, reducing the risk of denture-related discomfort and pain.
How to Maintain and Perform Denture Cleaning
Proper maintenance of dentures is essential for their longevity, and to ensure they continue to function properly. Using a denture brush is important to maintain the integrity of the dentures and facilitate effective cleaning. Dr. Pamela Daigle recommends doing the following to properly care for your dentures. Soaking dentures daily in a denture cleaning solution helps remove plaque, stubborn stains, and disinfects the dentures, keeping them feeling fresh.
Clean Dentures Daily
Dentures should be cleaned daily to remove food particles and prevent the buildup of bacteria. Use a soft-bristled brush and a gentle soap or denture cleanser to clean the denture thoroughly. Incorporating denture cleanser tablets into your routine can help remove plaque, stains, and bacteria, promoting a healthy mouth. Make sure to avoid using harsh soap or toothpaste, as these can damage your dentures. Rinse dentures before placing them back into the mouth. Additionally, denture adhesives can be used to hold dentures securely in place and form a seal to prevent food particles from getting trapped.
Handle With Care
Dentures are delicate and can be easily damaged if handled roughly. When cleaning them, be sure to handle your dentures carefully to avoid scratching, damaging, or breaking them.
Soak Them Overnight
Soak dentures overnight in water or a denture-soaking solution to help remove bacteria and keep them clean. However, make sure you follow instructions for soaking dentures and never use hot water, as it can cause your dentures to warp.
Store Them Properly
Dentures should be stored in a clean, dry container when not in use. Make sure the container has a lid and is placed in a safe location where it won’t be accidentally dropped or knocked over.
Use Denture Adhesive and Repair When Needed
If a denture is damaged or not fitting properly, visit our Slidell dentist to have it repaired. If you try to fix broken dentures yourself it can cause further damage and potentially render the denture unusable.
Keep Your Mouth Clean
Just because you have dentures doesn’t mean you should neglect your oral hygiene. It is crucial to clean your denture teeth regularly to prevent microbial growth and maintain oral health. Brush your gums, tongue, and remaining natural teeth with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day. This will help prevent gum disease and other oral health problems that weaken dentures.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health, even if you have dentures. Our dentist can check your dentures for any signs of wear or damage, as well as examine your gums and remaining natural teeth. We may also recommend adjustments or replacements if necessary.
Denture Cleansers
Denture cleansers are specifically designed to clean and disinfect dentures, removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria that can accumulate on the surface. There are various types of denture cleansers available, including tablets, creams, pastes, and solutions. When choosing a denture cleanser, it’s essential to select a product that is gentle on the denture material and effective in removing debris. Some popular denture cleansers include Polident tablets, which can eliminate 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria, and effervescent-type cleaners, which have good antimicrobial activity and do not affect metallic components.
Common Denture Care Mistakes
Despite the importance of denture care, many denture wearers make common mistakes that can compromise the health and longevity of their dentures. One of the most common mistakes is not cleaning dentures regularly, which can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar. Another mistake is using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals to clean dentures, which can damage the denture material. Additionally, some denture wearers may not soak their dentures overnight, which can help remove debris and bacteria that can accumulate on the surface. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for denture cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal results.
Maintaining Natural Teeth with Dentures in Slidell, LA
For partial denture wearers, maintaining natural teeth is crucial for overall oral health. Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar on natural teeth, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Additionally, regular dental check-ups can help identify any issues early on, ensuring that natural teeth remain healthy and strong. Denture wearers can also take steps to maintain the health of their natural teeth by avoiding sugary and acidic foods, which can contribute to tooth decay and erosion. By prioritizing the health of their natural teeth, partial denture wearers can enjoy a healthy and confident smile for years to come.
When to Replace Your Dentures
Knowing when it’s time to replace your dentures is crucial for maintaining your oral health and comfort. Complete dentures are prevalent among edentulous patients, and proper care and maintenance are essential to prevent issues such as denture-related stomatitis. Common signs that your dentures need replacement include:
- Visible Wear: Check for signs of wear and tear, including cracks, chips, or worn-down teeth. These can impact both the function and appearance of your dentures.
- Loose Fit: If your dentures no longer fit snugly or comfortably, it may be time for a replacement. An ill-fitting denture can lead to sore spots and difficulties with eating and speaking.
- Discomfort or Irritation: If you experience persistent discomfort, soreness, or irritation while wearing your dentures, consult your dentist. This could be due to changes in your mouth or the condition of your dentures.
- Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: Difficulty in chewing or speaking, even after adjustments, may indicate that your dentures are no longer effective.
If you’re experiencing any of the problems mentioned above, contact our dentist in Slidell today at (985) 214-2844 to schedule an appointment. We’ll examine your dentures and recommend the best course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it’s not recommended to use regular toothpaste to clean your dentures. Regular toothpaste can be abrasive and damage the surface of the dentures, causing scratches and creating places where bacteria can accumulate. Instead, denture wearers should use a cleaner specifically designed for dentures, which is gentler and more effective in removing stains, bacteria, and food particles from the denture surface.
Yes, dentures can break if dropped or mishandled. Dentures are made of acrylic resin, which is a hard but brittle material that can fracture or crack under pressure. If your dentures do break, don’t attempt to repair them yourself, as it may cause further damage.
To prevent your dentures from becoming stained, you should avoid drinking dark-colored liquids like coffee, tea, red wine, and fruit juices. You should also avoid smoking, as it can cause discoloration and stains on your dentures.
Visit Off the Trace Dental for a Long-Lasting Smile
At Off the Trace Dental, we believe that denture care is essential to ensuring optimal oral health and quality of life for our patients. We recommend that patients clean their dentures regularly, avoid staining foods and beverages, and visit our office at least once a year for a checkup and adjustment.
If you live in Slidell, New Orleans, Mandeville, Covington, or any of the surrounding areas, our dental practice is here to answer any of your questions. If you’re looking for comprehensive dental care for your dentures, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us today by calling our Slidell dental office at (985) 214-2844.