7 Denture Care & Maintenance Tips
Dentures are an excellent solution for restoring smiles and oral functionality. However, maintaining them properly is essential for their longevity and your overall oral health. Neglecting care can lead to discomfort, bacterial infections, and premature wear. With the right practices, you can keep your dentures in top shape, avoid costly repairs, and ensure a healthy mouth.
This blog will walk you through seven essential denture care and maintenance tips, ensuring your dentures serve you well for years.
1. Handle Your Dentures with Care
Dentures are durable, but they’re not indestructible. Handling them carelessly can result in cracks, chips, or worse, complete breakage. Always treat your dentures as you would any delicate item.
Tip: When cleaning or removing your dentures, stand over a folded towel or a sink filled with water. This provides a cushion in case they slip.
Why It Matters: Repairs for damaged dentures can be costly, and going without them while waiting for repairs can be inconvenient. Taking this small precaution can save you from unnecessary stress.
2. Clean Your Dentures Thoroughly Every Day
Just like natural teeth, dentures accumulate plaque, food particles, and stains. A consistent cleaning routine is essential to keep them looking and feeling fresh.
- Use a soft-bristled brush and a cleanser specifically designed for dentures. Avoid regular toothpaste—it’s abrasive and can scratch the surface, creating places for bacteria to hide.
- Pay attention to crevices and textured areas, as these can harbour debris.
- Rinse your dentures thoroughly under warm water before putting them back in.
Pro Tip: Cleaning your dentures every morning and night, along with a quick rinse after meals, helps prevent odours and prolongs their lifespan.
3. Soak Your Dentures Overnight
Dentures need to remain moist to retain their shape. Allowing them to dry out can lead to warping or cracking. Soaking them overnight not only keeps them hydrated but also helps remove stubborn debris.
- Place your dentures in lukewarm water or a mild denture-soaking solution.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions if using a commercial solution to avoid damaging the materials.
- Never use hot water, as it can warp the acrylic material.
Why soak? This step is vital because dentures lose their structural integrity when dry, compromising their fit and comfort.
4. Rinse After Meals
Food particles and plaque can quickly build up on dentures throughout the day, especially after meals. Rinsing them regularly helps prevent staining and keeps your breath fresh.
- Remove your dentures and run them under warm water after eating.
- Be gentle to avoid accidentally dropping them. Using a towel as a safety net is always a good idea.
Quick Hack: Keep a small denture brush or cleaning cloth in your bag for easy cleaning when dining out. This habit ensures you’re not caught off guard by lingering debris.
5. Maintain Your Oral Hygiene
Even if you no longer have natural teeth, keeping your gums, tongue, and cheeks clean is crucial. This helps prevent infections, irritation, and bad breath.
- After removing your dentures, use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a damp cloth to gently clean your gums, the roof of your mouth, and your tongue.
- If you use adhesive, clean any residual glue from your gums to avoid irritation.
- Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash to refresh your mouth.
Why is this important? Dentures don’t just rest on your gums—they rely on them for stability. Healthy gums mean a better denture fit and less discomfort.
6. Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups
Even with dentures, routine dental visits are necessary. Over time, the shape of your mouth can change due to natural bone resorption or other factors. This can affect how your dentures fit, leading to discomfort, slipping, or sore spots.
- Visit your denturist or dentist at least once a year, or more often if recommended.
- During check-ups, your dentist will examine the fit of your dentures and inspect your mouth for signs of irritation, infection, or oral health issues.
- Adjustments can be made to improve the fit and prevent long-term problems.
Did You Know? Poorly fitting dentures can lead to gum sores and even contribute to bone loss. Addressing fit issues early can help prevent these complications.
7. Avoid Common Mistakes
A few common habits can significantly shorten the lifespan of your dentures. Avoid the following:
- Skipping Cleanings: Forgetting to clean your dentures regularly can lead to plaque buildup and bad odours.
- Using Harsh Products: Household cleaners, bleach, or abrasive materials can damage your dentures’ surface.
- DIY Adjustments: If your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, resist the urge to adjust them yourself. Always consult a professional.
Additionally, avoid chewing on hard objects like pens or ice, as this can cause your dentures to crack.
Extra Tips for Prolonging Denture Life
- Store Dentures Properly: If you’re not wearing your dentures, always keep them in water or a soaking solution to prevent drying out.
- Replace Dentures When Needed: Dentures generally last 5–8 years with proper care. Over time, wear and tear can affect their fit and function. Regular replacements are essential for optimal comfort and performance.
- Eat Denture-Friendly Foods: Hard, sticky, or extremely hot foods can damage dentures. Opt for softer textures and cut food into smaller pieces to avoid unnecessary strain.
The Role of Professional Care
Your denturist is your best ally when it comes to denture maintenance. They can:
- Provide professional cleanings to remove stubborn stains and bacteria.
- Perform necessary adjustments for a better fit.
- Offer guidance tailored to your specific denture type and lifestyle.
At Ottawa South Denture Clinic, we’re committed to providing comprehensive denture care services to keep your smile at its best.
Investing In Your Oral Health
Caring for your dentures is an investment in your oral health and quality of life. By following these seven essential tips, you can ensure your dentures remain clean, comfortable, and functional for years to come. Proper handling, cleaning, and regular check-ups are simple steps that go a long way in maintaining their longevity.
If you’re experiencing discomfort or have questions about denture care, our expert team at Ottawa South Denture Clinic is here to help. We’re dedicated to providing you with tailored advice and professional services.
Ready to Give Your Dentures the Care They Deserve?
Contact Ottawa South Denture Clinic today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced professionals will guide you through all aspects of denture maintenance and ensure your oral health stays in top shape. Call or visit us online to book your appointment—we look forward to helping you smile confidently!
