If you wear dentures, it’s important to care for them properly in order to extend their lifespan and keep them looking their best. These teeth are not as durable as natural teeth, so they require a bit more care. In this blog post, we will discuss the dos and don’ts of caring for your smile once you get this treatment. Keep reading for tips on how to keep your removable teeth in good condition!

What are Dentures?

Dentures are removable artificial teeth that are used to replace missing teeth. Dentures can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, acrylic, and metal. They are held in place by suction or by dental adhesive.

Types of Dentures

The American Dental Association explains the types of dentures that are available to patients:

• Conventional. This full removable denture is made and placed in your mouth after the remaining teeth are removed and tissues have healed, which may take several months. 
• Immediate. This removable denture is inserted on the same day that the remaining teeth are removed. Your dentist will take measurements and make models of your jaw during a preliminary visit. You don’t have to be without teeth during the healing period, but may need to have the denture relined or remade after your jaw has healed. 
• Overdenture. Sometimes some of your teeth can be saved to preserve your jawbone and provide stability and support for the denture. An overdenture fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth after they have been prepared by your dentist. Implants can serve the same function, too.

The Best Candidates

Most people are good candidates for dentures, although there are a few exceptions. People who are not good candidates for this treatment include those who have:

• Severe gum disease
• Had all of their teeth removed
• Significant bone loss in the jawbone

The Dos and Don’ts of Caring for Dentures

Now that we have answered the question, “what are dentures?” It’s time to discuss how to properly care for them. Here are some dos and don’ts of caring for your dentures:

DO:

• Rinse your dentures after eating. This will help remove any food particles that are still on the teeth.
• Soak them in water or a denture cleaning solution overnight. This will help remove any plaque or bacteria that may be on them.
• Brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush every day. This will help keep them clean and free of plaque and bacteria.
• Store them in a safe place when you’re not wearing them. This will help prevent them from getting damaged or lost.

DON’T:

• Soak your dentures in hot water, as this can cause them to warp.
• Use toothpaste to brush them, as this can be too abrasive and damage the material.
• Put them in the dishwasher, as this can damage them.
• Store your dentures in direct sunlight, as this can cause them to fade.

Risks 

If you wear dentures, it is important to care for them properly and keep your mouth clean and healthy. Additionally, it’s important that they fit your mouth well. Ill-fitting dentures can result in the following problems:

• Gum and mouth irritation
• Problems eating and speaking
• Dentures that move around in your mouth
• Mouth infections

Even with proper care, dentures can sometimes develop problems.

Common Problems

Here are some of the most common problems that people experience with their removable teeth:

• Loose fitting. This is often due to shrinkage of the gums and bones. You can correct this by having the dentures relined or replaced.
• Cracking or breaking. This can be due to impact or other accidental damage. If this occurs, they will need to be repaired or replaced.
• Staining. This can be due to smoking, drinking coffee or tea, or eating foods that are dark in color. It can usually be remedied by soaking them in a denture cleaning solution.

If you experience any problems with your teeth, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to properly diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.

Dentures with Premier Dentistry of Eagle

If you are in need of dentures, the experts at Premier Dentistry of Eagle can help. We will work with you to find the best option for your needs. We also offer a variety of denture care products to keep your dentures clean and free of plaque and bacteria. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.