When you first get your dentures, there are quite a few things that you have to get used to. Talking and eating with your new teeth are going to be very different than when you were missing most of them.
You also may have to avoid a few common pitfalls to keep your dentures in good shape. Here are a few things you ought to watch out for if you want to keep your prosthetic working well.
Leaving Your Dentures in Overnight
One of the most common mistakes people make with their dentures is leaving them in as they sleep. Removable dentures rely on the support of your gums, and sometimes your gums need a break. Your dentures can also accumulate bacteria easily, and soaking your dentures in a cleaning solution each night is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they stay clean.
If you leave your dentures in while you sleep, you could start to develop sore spots along the gum line and accumulate bacteria on your prosthetic, leading to an unpleasant smell.
Cleaning your Dentures Improperly
Dentures are pretty sturdy, but cleaning them improperly is an easy way to damage them. Ideally, you should be brushing your prosthetic gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush each day. When you do, there isn’t any need to use toothpaste; this can abrade your dentures, leaving scratches behind where bacteria can hide.
You should also only wash your oral appliance with lukewarm water, as hot water can potentially cause them to warp.
Repairing Broken Dentures
When dentures chip, split or crack, it can be tempting to repair them on your own. This is almost always a really bad idea. If you take a broken set of dentures to your dentist, they may be able to repair them. If you cover them with superglue, however, that may not be possible.
You should rely on a professional to repair your dentures because doing it yourself is likely to do more harm than good. However, if you keep these tips in mind and diligently care for your oral appliance, you won’t have to worry about that.
About Our Practice
At Jacksonville Complete Dentistry, our dentists and dental team are committed to making your experience at our office the best that it can be. That means no more waiting for an hour in a sterile office where no one says a word to you. When you visit us, we’ll show you the attention and respect that you deserve.
If you have any questions about caring for your dentures, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (904) 645-6457.