Caring for Dentures – All You Need To Know

Effective denture care is important for having a great-looking smile, maintaining oral health, and fully using your biting and chewing functions. We recognise this and are happy to offer help and advice on caring for dentures to maximise their longevity and effectiveness. 

Caring for your dentures will protect your dental health and help them last. If you neglect to clean dentures, plaque can form, attacking nearby teeth and gums. Additionally, dentures can become damaged and may require repair or replacement. 

Does it matter what material my dentures are made from?

Modern dentures are not the heavy, bulky solution to missing teeth your grandparents wore. These days, they are much lighter and can be made from resin or acrylic, as well as ceramic, such as porcelain. Denture care advice may vary because the materials are not the same.

However, while there may be some slight differences in how they should be cared for, the advice about maintaining clean dentures applies to all dentures, no matter what material they are made from. Let’s take a closer look. 

Top Tips When Caring for Dentures

Remove and Rinse Dentures After Eating

When eating, small particles of food can become trapped in your dentures. This may make them uncomfortable, but any debris in your mouth can also attract acid-producing bacteria that damage teeth and gums. A fundamental of good denture care is to remove the dentures and rinse them after eating to eliminate any food particles. This will help reduce plaque until you can thoroughly clean your dentures at a more convenient time.

Clean Dentures Daily

You should have a denture care routine that includes daily cleaning of your dentures. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the natural teeth and remove any denture adhesive from your gums. 

You can also use a soft-bristled brush to clean dentures but do not use regular toothpaste, as it is abrasive and can scratch them. Be sure to clean all parts of the dentures as part of your care routine, but handle them carefully so as not to bend any of the plastic or clasps that hold them in place.

When cleaning your dentures, hold them over a towel in the sink so that if you drop them, they will have a soft landing and are unlikely to get damaged. This is particularly so if you have all-ceramic dentures that can easily be chipped.

Keep Dentures in a Cleaning Solution Overnight

Taking your dentures out when you sleep is essential for resting your gums. However, do not allow dentures to dry out, as this can cause them to warp.

Instead, consider wrapping them in a clean, damp cloth, sealing them in a plastic bag, soaking them in water, or using a hygienic solution to clean dentures.

Ask your Auburn dentist about caring for dentures, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions if you use a denture-soaking solution.

See your dentist for regular check-ups.

A critical part of your denture care routine is regular visits to the dentist. During these examinations, your Auburn dentist will examine your dental health, look for wear on your dentures, and ensure they still fit comfortably.

If your dentures start feeling loose, it is essential to arrange an appointment promptly. Ill-fitting dentures can lead to sores or infections, complicating oral health.

Regular maintenance will also ensure that any adjustments or repairs can be handled early, avoiding the need for costly replacements.

Handle with Care

While it’s tempting to handle dentures casually, they are delicate appliances that require gentle care. Dropping them or placing them under stress can easily damage them.

Always take precautions, such as using both hands when removing or inserting them, and never force them into place if they feel uncomfortable.

Denture Care in Auburn

Taking care of your dentures doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require consistency. With a little daily effort, you can protect your oral health and keep your dentures in excellent shape.

Find out more about caring for dentures at My Local Dentists. We’re always happy to help our patients, so don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us if you’d like to know more.

Call (02) 8214 8999 or book online today.

Visit us at Shop Q50, Auburn Central Shopping Centre, 57-59 Queen Street, Auburn.