A Dentist in Wrentham, MA answers patients’ common question, “How do I care for my dentures?”
Tooth decay, trauma, drugs and medications, and gum disease can all lead to the loss of teeth. Dentures are a method of replacing missing teeth that have been used for centuries, and fortunately, with advances in science and technology since those first denture treatments years ago, they are an effective and natural-looking way of replacing multiple missing teeth. If you have dentures, it is important that you take good care of them over time. Many patients ask, “How do I care for my dentures?” when they first receive them or need a refresher on their care over time. Dr. Rawat, a holistic dentist in Wrentham, MA, explains how dentures work and how to care for them.
How dentures work
When you have more than one missing tooth, the negative impact of those missing teeth on your overall mouth and quality of life can be profound. In addition to being important for properly chewing food, teeth play a vital role in your ability to speak normally and in your self-esteem. If your smile doesn’t look the way you want, your confidence can be diminished, and it can negatively impact the way you act around other people.
Dentures are removable prosthetic teeth that are custom-designed to look like your natural smile. Depending on the number of teeth that are missing and the health of the others surrounding it, your dentist may recommend either partial or full dentures. With dentures in place, the natural functions of your mouth are restored so you can return to your normal eating and speaking patterns and smile with confidence.
Caring for dentures
Even though dentures are false teeth, your mouth still needs regular care at home when you have them to maintain your oral health. In addition, properly caring for your dentures will make them last as long as possible and avoid issues such as bad breath.
Following these tips to care for your dentures and mouth can help you maintain the life of your dentures and your overall oral health:
- Brush the roof of your mouth, gums, and tongue daily before you put your dentures in. This removes plaque from these surfaces and helps with circulation in your mouth tissues, which is important for reducing the risk of discomfort and irritation from your dentures.
- Rinse your dentures with water every morning before putting them in your mouth, as well as after eating. This removes any debris or food that is loosely adhered to them.
- Brush all surfaces of your dentures daily to remove any plaque or food particles that have formed on them. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a cleaner that is non-abrasive while you are brushing them, which helps prevent them from getting scratched. Don’t use whitening or bleaching toothpaste or products, as these can weaken the dentures and cause discoloration.
- When you are not wearing your dentures, store them in a safe spot where they are submerged in water. Keeping them under water makes sure they don’t warp, which can cause them to not fit properly in your mouth.
- You may choose to use denture soaking solutions overnight. If you do, make sure that you follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your dentures and rinse them thoroughly before placing the dentures back in your mouth.
- Make sure you handle your dentures with care so that you don’t accidentally bend or break them.
- If anything feels loose or uncomfortable, see your dentist. They can assess the issue and help resolve it.
- See your dentist for regular hygiene checkups and cleanings. The dentist will check your mouth and gums for any issues, as well as examine and professionally clean your dentures.
The team at Advanced Dental Practices is here to answer your questions
Dr. Rawat and his associates at Advanced Dental Practices in Wrentham, MA are experts in dental technologies such as dentures to replace missing teeth. If you are missing one or more teeth, they can consult with you about the best treatment for your unique situation, taking into account the health of your other teeth, your budget, and your desired end results. They provide comprehensive care during the consultation, treatment, and follow-up stages and will ensure that you know how to properly care for your dentures or other dental restorations so that they last as long as possible and any future oral health complications are avoided. Call Dr. Rawat at (508) 456-7111 today to schedule your consultation!
