22 Aug 6 Tips for Denture Care in Prescott, AZ
Caring for your dentures is just as important as keeping natural teeth clean. But the process is a little different than simply flossing and brushing your teeth. For that reason, our team at Hicks Dental Group in Prescott would like to offer a few tips for denture care that will ensure your dentures last for years to come.
1. Take them out every night.
Take your dentures out before going to bed. Sleeping with them in can cause certain health problems to arise. Soak them in warm water overnight if they have metal clasps. If they don’t, you can use either a half-vinegar, half-water solution or a special denture cleanser. The process of soaking your dentures overnight will help to remove stains, plaque, tartar and harmful bacteria.
2. Clean them every day.
Just like your natural teeth, dentures can become stained and develop plaque buildup. This can lead to problems in your gums, such as infection and irritation. Brush your dentures with a regular soft-bristled brush. If you have partial dentures, make sure you use a different brush than you do for your natural teeth. You can also use a special denture-cleaning brush. Regular hand soap, mild dishwashing detergent, and mouthwash can all be used for cleaning dentures.
3. Handle them with care.
Dentures are expensive, and since they can break easily, you’ll need to take extra care with them. Clean them over a folded towel or bowl of water in case they drop. Avoid the use of toothpicks when you’re wearing them, and don’t use strong cleaners or hard brushes to clean them. All of these can cause damage to your dentures. And never leave them where young children or pets can reach them.
4. See your dentist.
Whether you have partial or complete dentures, you still need to visit your dentist twice a year. Your Prescott dentist at Hicks Dental Group will examine the gum tissue underneath your dentures to ensure that it is staying healthy.
5. Be aware of any changes in fit.
If your dentures aren’t fitting properly or don’t feel right, be sure to schedule an appointment with us. The gums and bones in our mouths change over time, which can lead to dentures that don’t fit correctly. Poorly fitting dentures can cause irritation like sores, pain, and burning. An improper fit can also cause abdominal gas from swallowing too much air. Dentures that don’t fit may also be a sign of periodontal disease, so it’s important to come in and have them checked. The good news is that we can adjust them if needed.
6. Don’t forget the rest of your mouth!
Even if you have complete dentures, you still need to take care of your gums. Every time you remove your dentures, rinse your mouth out with water, then massage your gums with a washcloth or a soft toothbrush. If you have partial dentures, you’ll still need to properly brush and floss your natural teeth twice a day.
Visit Hicks Dental Group in Prescott
Follow these tips for denture care to ensure your smile looks beautiful and natural for years to come. If you have any more questions about denture care, schedule an appointment with Hicks Dental Group today. We look forward to providing you and your family with quality dental care in Prescott.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/22/19). Image by Linus Schütz from Pixabay