Avoid These 5 Bad Denture Habits to Keep Your Smile in Top Condition!

Missing teeth not only impact your self-confidence, but it can take away everyday abilities such as eating and speaking easily. Fortunately, dentures can give you back your smile and functioning of a complete set of pearly whites! However, to keep them in top condition, it’s important to avoid certain habits so they can last as long as possible. Read on to learn five of them!

#1:  Not Keeping Your Dentures Clean

Your dentures should be treated just like your natural teeth when it comes to cleaning them. They need to be brushed every day to ensure that they’re free of bacteria, plaque, and food particles. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture-specific toothpaste to thoroughly scrub any remaining debris off your prosthetic. Remember to avoid using any harsh tools or products, like a hard-bristled toothbrush or whitening toothpaste, as they can cause damage to your prosthetic.

#2: Neglecting the Rest of Your Mouth

Oftentimes, personal dental care is just thought of as caring for your teeth, whether natural or artificial. But oral health encompasses your entire mouth since bacteria and plaque can gradually accumulate throughout it. With this in mind, be sure to brush any remaining pearly whites, gums, tongue, and cheeks at least twice a day to maintain good oral health.

#3: Forgetting to Soak Your Dentures Overnight

For dentures to maintain their shape, they need to stay moist. Before going to bed, soak them in a glass of water or denture cleaning solution. Be sure to use room-temperature water; using hot water can warp the material and cause them to lose their fit. In the morning, rinse them before placing them back in your mouth.

#4: Not Handling Your Dentures with Care

Handling your dentures carefully will minimize the risk of cracks or breaks. To prevent any damage, wash them over a sink filled with water or a soft, clean, folded towel so something will break their fall in case you drop them. Additionally, put your dentures in a special case when you are not using them to keep them safe from harm.

#5: Neglecting Your Regular Dental Visits

Even if you wear full dentures, it is still essential that you attend your dental checkups and cleanings every six months. Your dentist will be able to keep track of your oral health, including your remaining teeth and gums. Preventive care is important because they can catch any issues before they become more serious problems. They can also make sure your dentures are in good shape and not becoming damaged in any way. If your prosthetic is not fitting correctly, you may need them relined or replaced.

About the Practice

Whitinsville Family Dentistry is eager to help you keep your smile whole and healthy through the expertise of its team of dentists. With a focus on providing high-quality dentistry in a comfortable environment, they provide a range of dental services. They offer restorative options such as full, partial, and implant dentures using advanced dental technology and customized plans. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (508) 234-8107.