Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Dentures: Tips and Tricks

Getting dentures can be a game-changer, bringing back that confident smile and making eating a breeze again. But maintaining oral hygiene with dentures is a whole new ball game. When I first started practicing cosmetic dentistry in Istanbul, I was surprised at how many patients struggled with this. It’s not just about keeping your dentures clean; it’s about maintaining your overall oral health. Let me share some insights and personal tips that have worked wonders for my patients.

The Basics of Denture Care

First things first, you need to understand that dentures are like tiny homes for bacteria if not cleaned properly. Just like natural teeth, they need regular care. But here’s the kicker: dentures need to be handled more delicately. You can’t just brush them like you would your natural teeth.

Handling Dentures with Care

When you’re handling your dentures, always do it over a folded towel or a sink full of water. This is a little trick I tell all my patients. Dentures can be slippery little devils, and dropping them can cause damage. The towel or water can soften the blow if you accidentally drop them. Also, never use hot water on your dentures. I’ve seen patients warp their dentures by cleaning them in hot water not a pretty sight.

Brushing Your Dentures

You should brush your dentures daily, just like you would your natural teeth. But here’s where it differs: use a soft-bristled denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Regular toothpaste can be too harsh and can cause micro-abrasions where bacteria can hide. I’m torn between recommending a specific denture cleaner because there are so many good ones out there, but ultimately, choose one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Brush your dentures gently, making sure to clean all the surfaces, including the part that comes into contact with your gums. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider some patients find that soaking their dentures in a denture-soaking solution helps loosen up any stuck food particles before brushing.

Soaking Your Dentures

Soaking dentures is a bit of a controversial topic. Some dentists swear by it, others aren’t convinced. I think it depends on the patient’s specific needs. If you’re prone to getting a lot of food stuck in your dentures, soaking might help. But if your dentures are well-fitting and you don’t have this issue, brushing alone might be sufficient.

If you do choose to soak, use a denture-soaking solution and follow the instructions on the package. Don’t leave them soaking for too long, though this can cause damage over time. Maybe I should clarify never use bleach or other harsh chemicals to soak your dentures. These can weaken the denture material and change the color.

Rinsing Thoroughly

After brushing and/or soaking, rinse your dentures thoroughly. I mean really thoroughly. Any leftover denture cleaner can cause irritation if it gets into your mouth. Rinse them until you can’t see any residue anymore. This is a step that’s often overlooked, but it’s crucial.

Keeping Dentures Moist

Dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. If they dry out, they can become brittle and may not fit well anymore. When you’re not wearing your dentures, store them in a denture-soaking solution or water. Never let them dry out completely. I’ve had patients who’ve accidentally left their dentures out overnight and woken up to find them warped. It’s not a fun situation to be in.

Cleaning Your Mouth

Maintaining oral hygiene with dentures isn’t just about the dentures themselves; it’s also about your mouth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth before you insert your dentures. This helps remove any plaque and stimulates circulation in your mouth, promoting good oral health.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Even if you have full dentures, you still need regular dental check-ups. Your dentist can professionally clean your dentures and check for any signs of oral diseases. Plus, they can make sure your dentures are fitting properly. Ill-fitting dentures can cause a whole host of problems, from sores in your mouth to changes in your facial structure.

Dealing with Common Denture Problems

Even with the best care, dentures can sometimes cause issues. Let’s talk about some common problems and how to deal with them.

Denture Stomatitis

Denture stomatitis is an inflammation of the mouth caused by a buildup of the fungus Candida. It’s more common in people who wear dentures because the dentures can trap Candida against the tissues of the mouth. The best way to prevent this is by maintaining good oral hygiene and cleaning your dentures thoroughly. If you do get denture stomatitis, your dentist can prescribe an antifungal medication.

Irritation and Sores

Ill-fitting dentures can cause irritation and sores in your mouth. If this happens, don’t try to adjust the dentures yourself. See your dentist they can adjust your dentures to fit better. In the meantime, you can use a dental adhesive to help keep your dentures in place and reduce movement.

Bad Breath

Bad breath can be a problem with dentures, especially if they’re not cleaned properly. Food particles can get stuck in the dentures and start to smell as they break down. Regular cleaning can help prevent this. Also, make sure to clean your mouth as well as your dentures bacteria can build up on your tongue and in your mouth, causing bad breath.

When to Replace Your Dentures

Dentures aren’t meant to last forever. Over time, they can become worn down, stained, or loose. But how do you know when it’s time to replace them?

Signs of Wear and Tear

If your dentures are showing signs of wear and tear, it might be time to replace them. This includes things like cracks, chips, or teeth that are becoming flat due to wear. Worn-down dentures can cause problems with your bite and may not be as effective at chewing food.

Changes in Fit

If your dentures don’t fit as well as they used to, it could be a sign that they need to be replaced. Over time, your mouth changes shape, and this can cause dentures to become loose. Loose dentures can cause irritation and sores, so it’s important to get them replaced if this happens.

Staining

Dentures can become stained over time, just like natural teeth. If your dentures are becoming discolored and regular cleaning isn’t helping, it might be time to get a new set. Stained dentures can affect your self-confidence and make you less likely to smile.

The Emotional Side of Dentures

Let’s not forget about the emotional side of things. Getting dentures can be a big change, and it’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed at first. It’s like any big life change it takes time to adjust.

If you’re feeling self-conscious about your dentures, remember that they’re meant to improve your quality of life. They can help you eat better, speak more clearly, and smile with confidence. Give yourself time to get used to them. And if you’re still feeling uncomfortable, talk to your dentist. They can offer support and advice to help you adjust.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Dentures: A Personal Challenge

Maintaining oral hygiene with dentures is a personal challenge, but it’s one that’s well worth taking on. It’s about more than just keeping your dentures clean it’s about maintaining your overall health and well-being. So, are you ready to take on the challenge? Your smile will thank you for it.

FAQ

Q: Can I use regular toothpaste to clean my dentures?
A: No, regular toothpaste can be too abrasive for dentures. Use a non-abrasive denture cleaner instead.

Q: How often should I clean my dentures?
A: You should clean your dentures daily, just like you would your natural teeth.

Q: What should I do if my dentures are causing irritation?
A: If your dentures are causing irritation, see your dentist. They can adjust your dentures to fit better.

Q: How long do dentures usually last?
A: Dentures typically last about 5-7 years, but this can vary depending on how well you take care of them and how much your mouth changes over time.

WhatsApp: +90(543)1974320

Email: [email protected]