Have you ever wondered why dentures lose their shine or fit over time? Proper denture care is the key to keeping them clean, comfortable, and long-lasting. Whether you’re new to wearing dentures near you or have had them for years, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing how to care for them.
Why is Proper Denture Care Important?
Dentures are used to replace missing teeth and restore a smile. Although they require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent bad breath, stains and even oral infections. Denture users make small mistakes in everyday life that could add up to big problems for them.
When you visit a dentist regularly, you will detect problems early. Also, your dentures will continue to fit. Now, let us take a look at the most common denture mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Sleeping with Dentures On
Maybe leaving dentures in at night is totally fine, but it is still a cause of gum irritation and an increase in bacteria. The gums of our mouths have to be given time to rest and to be regenerated.
Tip: Make it a habit to take your dentures off when you go to bed and put them in water or a denture-cleaning solution overnight.
2. Using Regular Toothpaste for Cleaning
Using regular toothpaste is a common denture mistake most make. Many brands of toothpaste are abrasive and can easily scratch denture surfaces, making them dull and more stained.
Tip: Use a soft denture brush and mild denture cleanser instead. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the shape.
3. Not Following Proper Cleaning Routines
Some people only clean the visible parts of their dentures, thus they let the food remnants and plaque accumulate in the parts that are not visible. As a result, these can cause bad odours and gum infections.
Tip: Make sure to brush all surfaces of your dentures every day and rinse them after every meal. Also, remember that it is important to clean your gums and tongue too.
4. Not Handling Dentures Carefully
Once the removable teeth hit the floor or any other surface, their parts would be cracked or even bent. Just a drop in the basin could spoil the pieces in a way that they become loose.
Advice: Make it a point to wash your dentures on a folded towel or in a bowl of water so that in case of a slip, the denture won’t be broken.
5. Skipping Dental Checkups
It is a common misconception that when one gets dentures, dental visits are no longer necessary. Nevertheless, this is another big denture maintenance mistake. After a while, the shape of your oral cavity changes, and dentures may become loose or irritating to your gums.
Tip: Make sure to see your dentist near you every 6–12 months for checking the fit and cleanliness.
6. Using Glue or Home Repairs
Using glue to repair a broken denture as if it were a fast remedy may eventually result in a situation worse than before. In fact, the denture material can be affected by the chemicals in the glue, and the lining of your mouth can be irritated.
Advice: If you want the repair to be safe and durable, only the dentist should be the one to make it.
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FAQs
How often should I clean my dentures?
Brush them with a soft brush and a mild soap to remove debris.
Can I use mouthwash for dentures?
Just keep it free of alcohol, which can make the item fragile to the touch.
How long do dentures last?
Normal dentures usually last between 5 to 7 years with help.
What should I do if my dentures feel loose?
It would be wise if you had a consultation with your dentist to see have it fixed instead of actually fixing it.
