Proper Denture Care

Dentures can improve the appearance of your smile and face, but to protect your investment you need to be sure that you are caring for them properly so that they last as long as possible. Removable dentures need to be cared for just like natural teeth, although there are some differences between the two.

Full dentures are used as a replacement for a complete set of upper or lower teeth, while partial dentures are attached to existing teeth, potentially weakening them over time. Partial dentures can accumulate plaque on supporting teeth, leaving you more susceptible to gum disease and tooth decay. So you need to be especially vigilant when wearing partial dentures.

Advice and tips on Caring for Your Dentures

Try hand soap or liquid dish detergent. Cleansers and pastes developed for dentures are acceptable, but they can be expensive. Ordinary detergents and soaps are gentle and can do an excellent cleaning job, especially if they contain an antibacterial agent. Place some on a soft toothbrush. Do not forget to rinse your dentures after brushing them.

• Use a soft brush. Avoid hard-bristled brushes that could scratch your dentures, giving bacteria a place to hide. There are some dentures that are specifically created for cleaning dentures.
• Avoid toothpaste. Most toothpastes contain grit to scrub away plaque. They are often too harsh for dentures, which are made from softer materials. 

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about caring for dentures:

Can dentures be worn all the time?

Dentures are not meant to be worn around-the-clock. Wearing your dentures too much can cause a rapid loss of jawbone mass, increase oral infection risk, and cause teeth to loosen. Removing them lets saliva do a better job of sanitizing and cleaning your mouth.

How can I avoid breaking my dentures accidentally? 

Placing a towel under you while removing or replacing your dentures provides a soft landing spot if you should drop them accidentally. 

How long do dentures last?

Dentures last on average between five and seven years if the patient takes care of them properly. Eventually, the artificial teeth base will become worn down and need repair. As you get older, your mouth will also naturally change, potentially causing your dentures to not fit correctly. 

How can I make sure that my dentures last as long as possible?

One thing that you should do is ensure that your dentures never dry out. Whenever your dentures are out of your mouth, place them in a cleaning solution. Alternately, you could place them in lukewarm water. Just avoid placing them in hot water that could warp your dentures.

When to Contact Your Dentist

If you find that the fit of your dentures changes, or if your dentures become damaged, be sure to contact your dentist right away to schedule an appointment.