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Dentures can restore not just your smile, but also your confidence, comfort, and ability to enjoy everyday activities like eating and speaking. However, just like natural teeth, dentures require proper care to stay clean, comfortable, and long-lasting. Whether you have full or partial dentures, following a few simple habits can help you keep them in top condition for years to come. Here are 5 essential tips for taking care of your dentures.
1. Clean Your Dentures Daily
Even though dentures aren’t made of natural enamel, they can still collect food particles, bacteria, and plaque throughout the day. Without proper cleaning, this buildup can cause bad breath, gum irritation, and staining.
To clean your dentures:
- Remove them and rinse thoroughly with warm water after meals to wash away food debris.
- Brush them daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush or denture brush. Avoid regular toothpaste — it’s too abrasive and can scratch the surface. Instead, use a non-abrasive denture cleaner or mild dish soap.
- Be gentle when brushing to avoid bending or damaging the dentures.
Regular cleaning keeps your dentures looking fresh and helps prevent odor-causing bacteria from building up.
2. Soak Them Overnight
Most dentures need to stay moist to maintain their shape. Letting them dry out can cause warping, which may affect how they fit in your mouth.
Before bedtime, place your dentures in a glass of water or a denture-soaking solution. This helps keep them hydrated and disinfected. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for soaking solutions — and remember to rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth in the morning.
If your dentures have metal attachments, check with your dentist before using soaking solutions, as some products can tarnish metal components.
3. Handle with Care
Dentures may look sturdy, but they can break or crack if dropped. When cleaning or handling your dentures, it’s best to:
- Hold them over a soft towel or a sink filled with water to cushion the impact in case they slip.
- Avoid bending or twisting the plastic or metal clasps.
- Keep them away from hot water, which can warp their shape.
A small amount of caution goes a long way toward preventing damage and costly repairs.
4. Keep Your Mouth Clean
Caring for your dentures also means caring for your mouth. After removing your dentures, brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush to remove plaque and stimulate circulation.
If you wear partial dentures, be sure to clean your remaining natural teeth thoroughly to prevent decay or gum disease, which can affect the fit and comfort of your dentures over time.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Even if you no longer have all your natural teeth, regular dental visits are still essential. Your dentist will check the fit of your dentures, inspect your gums and oral tissues, and look for any signs of irritation or infection. Over time, your mouth can change shape, which may require adjustments or relining of your dentures to maintain comfort and function.
If your dentures ever feel loose, rub against your gums, or cause pain, don’t try to fix them yourself — schedule a visit with your dentist.
Proper denture care is key to keeping your smile bright, your mouth healthy, and your dentures comfortable. By cleaning them daily, handling them carefully, soaking them overnight, and keeping up with dental visits, you can enjoy a confident smile for many years.
About the Practice
Renaissance Dental in Fort Worth has natural-looking, affordable tooth replacements with their dentures. Our prostheses are highly customized to ensure the best fit, and our use of modern technology means that you’re getting an accurately made denture. You can pair them with dental implants for even more stability! With the help of our knowledgeable and accommodating team, you’ll leave our office feeling like a million bucks! Schedule an appointment online today or call (817) 289-5200.
