Complete dentures are removable appliances used for replacing missing teeth and the surrounding tissue. They can greatly improve your smile and facial appearance, as well as aiding clear speech, and your chewing ability. With the advances in dental technology, materials, and techniques, modern dentures are an attractive, comfortable, and functional method to restore your smile.
Just like the natural teeth that they so effectively replace, dentures need daily care, professional cleaning, and regular checkups. The materials that your dentures are made of have microscopic pores that can trap bacteria. They can become contaminated because they are exposed to the same harmful bacteria that can cause oral disease. Contaminated dentures can continuously reinfect the oral tissues. It is crucial to your oral health that you:
- Practice excellent oral hygiene – Use a toothbrush and toothpaste made especially for dentures. A regular toothbrush may scratch the denture material, and most toothpaste is abrasive. Clean the dentures twice daily, making sure to clean all surfaces carefully.
- Handle carefully – Although dentures are very durable, they are fragile. It is recommended that your clean them over a basin of water or a folded towel in case they are dropped.
- Warm water – Boiling water, a microwave, or a dishwasher can warp the dentures, use comfortably warm water when cleaning them.
- Cleaners – Household cleaners, alcohol, whiteners, bleaches, and abrasive cleaners can damage your dentures. Use a mild dishwashing liquid or a product designed for dentures to clean or soak them.
- Oral Health – When you clean your dentures, clean your gums, tongue, and cheeks to remove bacteria and provide stimulation.
- Rinse – Rinse your dentures and your mouth after meals or snacks if you cannot brush until later.
- Rest your gums – Remove your dentures at night to rest your gums and allow the tongue to stimulate them. Place your dentures in water or a denture soaking solution when they aren’t worn to prevent them from drying out.
- Discomfort – If you notice any signs of discomfort, contact the doctor, do not try to repair or adjust them yourself. The appliance can require repair or replacement if they are damaged; the doctor has the tools and skills to adjust them safely.
If you need dentures, or are having problems with your existing dentures, call our office in Naples (239) 593-2111, or in Marco Island (239) 394-4906 and schedule an appointment.