Dentures are not your natural teeth, but you still need to take care of them in order for them to serve you well and to last for as long as possible.
When you first get your dentures, our dentists, Peter Cha and Danny H. Dinh will talk with you about taking proper care of them. Like natural teeth, dentures need to be brushed daily to remove food and plaque. Brushing also helps prevent the development of stains. You should use a toothbrush designed for dentures or one with soft bristles. Regular toothpaste contains abrasives that scratch or damage your dentures. Instead, use toothpaste formulated for dentures, or a mild dish or hand soap. Brush them over a sink full of water or a towel. That way, if you drop them, there will be less of a chance that they will break.
If you do break them, don’t try to fix them on your own. Your dentist should be the only person to adjust or repair your dentures. Once removed, a soft toothbrush can be used to clean your tongue, cheeks and roof of your mouth (palate). This removes any plaque and stimulates circulation in your mouth. You should not wear your dentures 24 hours a day. Removing them in the evening gives your gums and tissues a chance to recover and rebound. When you do take them out they should be kept moist in order for them to keep their shape. When you go to bed or take them out for a significant period of time, be sure to place them in a denture solution.
Seeing your dentist at least twice a year is a key aspect to making sure that your dentures last. They need to be replaced since they will wear out, and the fit will change as the shape of your mouth changes. Your dentist will check the health of your gums and the fit of your dentures to see if they need to be adjusted, relined or even replaced.
If you are having issues with your dentures in Frederick, Maryland, we can help with making sure you have the proper fit or creating new ones. If you would like to make an appointment at Family Smile Center LLC, call 301.663.9484 today and we will help you get the smile you want and need!