Denture Care 101: Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Prosthesis

Dentures are a remarkable solution for patients who have lost their natural teeth. These artificial teeth restore your smile and play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and overall well-being. However, proper care is essential to ensure your dentures serve you well for years to come. In this post, we'll delve into the basics of denture care and provide expert tips to help you maintain your dentures effectively.

Basics of Denture Care

Dentures come in two primary forms: complete and partial. Complete dentures replace all of your natural teeth, while partial dentures are designed to replace only a few missing teeth. Regardless of the type, taking care of your dentures ensures longevity.

Proper care not only extends the lifespan of your dentures but can also save you time and money in the long run. 

Denture Care Tips

Dentures are an important asset to many patients. They can help restore a person's smile and ability to eat and speak normally. However, dentures require proper care to keep them clean and healthy.

Here are some tips for caring for your dentures:

Cleaning

Cleaning your dentures is a fundamental aspect of their maintenance. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush or a denture brush to clean your dentures daily gently. Avoid using regular toothpaste, which can be abrasive and damage the denture's surface. Instead, use a mild denture cleaner such as dawn dish soap  recommended by your dentist.

Soaking

Dentures should soak in water or a denture-cleaning solution when not in use. This will help to prevent them from drying out, which can lead to warping and distortion. Follow your dentist's recommendations on soaking and cleaning solutions.

Oral Hygiene

Even if you have dentures, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft-bristle toothbrush to remove plaque and stimulate circulation. This practice also helps reduce the risk of oral infections.

Handling and Storage

Handle your dentures with care. When removing or cleaning them, fill the sink with water or place a soft towel underneath to cushion their fall if they slip from your hands. When not in use, store your dentures in a denture box filled with water to prevent them from drying out or becoming misshapen.

Proper Diet

Be mindful of your diet. Avoid harsh, sticky foods that require excessive chewing, as they can damage dentures. Cut food into smaller, bite-sized pieces to make eating easier.

Extending Denture Lifespan

Proper care and maintenance are essential for extending the lifespan of your dentures. Here are three things you can do to help your dentures last longer:

Regular Checkups

Visiting your dentist for regular checkups is crucial for denture wearers. Your dentist can ensure that your dentures fit properly and make necessary adjustments. Sore spots, loose dentures, and discomfort are issues that may arise, and your dentist can address them promptly.

Professional Cleaning

Periodic professional cleaning by your dentist ensures that any plaque or tartar buildup on your dentures will be removed. This not only helps maintain their appearance but also keeps your mouth healthy.

Prosthodontist Consultation

Consider consulting a prosthodontist, a specialist with expertise in restoring and replacing missing teeth. They can provide tailored advice and solutions to address any denture-related concerns you may have.

By following these tips, you can help extend the lifespan of your dentures. However, some things can shorten their lifespan:

Not cleaning your dentures properly

Dropping or banging your dentures

Not wearing your dentures

Conclusion

Proper denture care is essential for extending the lifespan of your prosthesis and ensuring optimal oral health. Regular cleaning, soaking, maintaining good oral hygiene, careful handling and storage, and a proper diet all play a significant role in preserving the condition of your dentures.

Remember that regular checkups with your dentist and, when needed, consultations with a prosthodontist are essential steps in maintaining your dentures. Dr. Jennifer M. Pan supports your journey to optimal oral health and prosthesis longevity.

By following these denture care tips and seeking professional guidance when necessary, you can continue to enjoy a beautiful smile and the benefits of a well-maintained denture for years to come. Contact us today to get more information.