While dentures won’t last forever they can certainly last many years before needing to be relined or replaced. How you care for them will also determine how long they last. We know that once our North Haven, CT, family dentists Drs. Joseph and Theodore Gargano give you your dentures you will want to do whatever it takes to keep them looking and feeling their best. Here are some tips on how to care for your partial or full dentures.
Be gentle with your dentures: While your new teeth are made from durable, high-quality material they are still prone to damage. Be careful not to bend or break the clasps, especially when cleaning the dentures. Before handling your dentures it’s a good idea to place a towel on the surface so that if you do drop your dentures they are less likely to break.
Clean dentures after eating: Just as you should brush or at least rinse your mouth out every time you eat in order to dislodge food from between your teeth the same rule applies for denture wearers. Place a towel down on the counter or fill a sink with water and then run water over the dentures to remove any food.
Clean your mouth before putting dentures back in: You should also use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clean any natural teeth, as well as your gums, cheeks, and tongue to remove any bacteria or denture adhesive before placing your dentures back in your mouth.
Brush dentures daily: Along with rinsing your dentures between meals it’s also important that you actually clean them properly, too. Using a gentle denture cleanser and a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently brush the false teeth to remove any food or plaque. Make sure to also remove any adhesive that may be stuck to the dentures. It’s important to remove dentures from your mouth prior to cleaning them and to never clean your dentures while you are wearing them, as the cleaning products can be toxic.
Soak your dentures overnight: You should never wear your dentures to bed. Before bedtime, place your dentures in water or a denture solution to help them stay moist and to maintain their shape. If you have questions about how to store your dentures don’t hesitate to ask your North Haven, CT, dentists.
If you are dealing with tooth loss in North Haven, CT, then it’s time to turn to a dental team that can restore your smile. If you want to find out more about getting dentures, dental implants, or bridges call Gargano Family Dentistry today.