Dentures should be taken care of just like real teeth. When you take your dentures out, you should brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. You should rinse the dentures well with water and brush them with denture cleaner or toothpaste to effectively remove food particles from in between the teeth. You should soak the dentures in lukewarm water or denture-cleaning liquid when you are done brushing them. They should never be worn over night! Your mouth needs to have a rest while you sleep just like you do. If this is done daily, it will help eliminate odor and stains from the dentures and keep them in good condition.
Individuals with poor motor control or arthritis can purchase toothbrushes with larger or thicker handles for improved comfort and control. Battery powered tooth brushes are also helpful in improving efficiency.
You should also continue to see your dentist every 6 months just like when you had teeth. The dentist will make sure the denture is fitting and functioning properly. Loose and non-functioning dentures can make noise, fall out, reduce chewing function and be embarrassing. Sores caused by an ill-fitting denture that rubs your tissue can lead to very severe problems including oral cancer.
Follow these tricks on denture care and not only will you be functioning and healthy, but you will also be able to smile with confidence.
