Whether you need to just replace several teeth or an entire arch, dentures are a wonderful option for restoring your pearly whites. They can return the confidence that comes with a complete and natural-looking smile, as well as your bite power. You can also count on your prosthetic to last up to 10 years or more. But just like regular teeth, they can be affected by bad oral habits. You want to ensure that your dentures stay in great condition so they can last as long as possible. Here are five harmful denture habits to avoid so your smile can stay whole and happy for years to come!
#1: Not Cleaning Your Dentures Regularly or Properly
Your dentures should be treated just like your natural teeth when it comes to cleaning them. They need to be brushed every day to ensure that they’re free of bacteria, plaque, and food particles. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture-specific toothpaste to thoroughly scrub any remaining debris off your prosthetic. Avoid using any harsh tools or products, like a hard-bristled toothbrush or whitening toothpaste, as they can cause damage to your prosthetic.
#2: Neglecting to Clean the Rest of Your Mouth
Oftentimes, personal dental care is just thought of as caring for your teeth, whether natural or artificial. But oral health encompasses your entire mouth since bacteria and plaque can gradually accumulate throughout it. With this in mind, be sure to brush any remaining teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks at least twice a day to maintain good oral health.
#3: Forgetting to Soak Your Dentures Overnight
In order for dentures to maintain their shape, they need to stay moist. Before going to bed, soak them in a glass of water or denture cleaning solution. Be sure to use room-temperature water; using hot water can warp the material and cause them to lose their fit. In the morning, rinse them before placing them back in your mouth.
#4: Not Handling Your Dentures with Care
Handling your dentures carefully will minimize the risk of cracks or breaks. To prevent any damage, wash them over a sink filled with water or a soft, clean, folded towel so something will break their fall in case you drop them. Additionally, put your dentures in a special case when you are not using them to keep them safe from harm.
#5: Neglecting Your Regular Dental Visits
Even if you wear full dentures, it is still crucial that you go to your dental checkups and cleanings every six months. Your dentist will be able to keep track of your oral health, including your remaining teeth and gums. Preventive care is important because they can catch any issues before they become more serious problems. They can also make sure your dentures are in good shape and not becoming damaged in any way. If your prosthetic is not fitting correctly, you may need them relined or replaced.
By avoiding these bad denture habits, your dentures should remain in top condition so you can enjoy a complete set of pearly whites for many years. Now that is something to “completely” smile about!
About the Practice
Salt Run Family Dentistry keeps the smiles of St. Augustine whole and healthy through the expertise of its two dentists. With decades of experience, their top priority is high-quality service as they help you with your restorative dental needs. By using advanced dental technology and 100% custom plans, they provide full, partial, and implant dentures. To schedule an appointment, contact them at their website or call—or text—(904) 824-3540.