Preserving Prosthetics: 3 Tips for Maintaining Dentures

Some denture patients believe that if they’ve lost all their teeth, they no longer need to worry about their oral health. However, your prosthetics form a tight bond against your connective tissues to remain in place, trapping bacteria against them. This increases your vulnerability to gum disease, which can spread to your jawbone or enter your bloodstream and contribute to other medical concerns, like diabetes or heart problems.

Caring for your dentures correctly prevents these issues because it ensures that your restoration and your mouth stay clean and healthy. Continue reading to learn 3 ways to maintain your new teeth!

Tip #1: Implement a Routine

Regardless of how many natural teeth you have remaining, you should remove your restoration twice daily for cleanings. To avoid abrading the materials, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild dish soap and gently scrub all surfaces. Be sure also to brush and floss any remaining pearly whites. This removes plaque and bacteria buildup that lead to discoloration, bad breath, and periodontal problems.

Also, brush your gums and tongue and complete your routine by swishing with an alcohol-free mouthwash for a thorough cleanse before rinsing and reinserting your new teeth.

Tip #2: Rinse After Meals

With your dentures in place, you can enjoy a wide variety of wholesome foods to support your oral and overall health. However, they often trap small bits of your meal in the space between the acrylic base and your gumline, encouraging bacteria to thrive.

To keep them at bay, it’s a good idea to remove your restoration and rinse it under running water after meals. A quick wash removes any leftover food particles and germs, preventing them from forming a sticky layer of plaque on your prosthetics. As a bonus, this also prevents darkly pigmented particles from tinting the teeth a deeper hue!

Tip #3: Take a Break at Night

Some people wonder whether it’s safe to sleep with their dentures in, and while it might be acceptable occasionally, it’s typically not recommended. This is because your restoration forms a tight enough bond against your connective tissues that it reduces their circulation. When the blood supply is cut short, your body can’t deliver essential nutrients or disease-fighting cells to your teeth or gums. You’re more likely to develop sores or periodontal disease as a result.

Leaving your dentures in a glass of water or a special soaking solution overnight gives your mouth a well-deserved reprieve. Plus, it maintains the shape of your dentures while keeping them moist enough to prevent bacterial growth. Remember to use cool or lukewarm water, though, because overly hot temperatures can warp the acrylic base so it no longer fits correctly.

Including these tasks in your daily routine can keep your dentures in great shape for years to come!

Meet the Author

Dr. Karen Ho has about 20 years of experience helping people improve their lives by enhancing their dental health. She earned her dental doctorate at the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry and commits 50+ hours annually to lifelong learning with prestigious institutions, like Spear Continuing Education. She provides a comprehensive array of world-class services to conveniently meet all your needs under one roof, including replacement teeth. She partners with the best local specialists to design and create lifelike restorations intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (408) 558-9444.