There are several benefits that patients with dentures can enjoy, including the fact that they are custom-made to look and feel just like the real thing. They can also last for 10 years or more with proper care and maintenance, making them an even more cost-effective solution. If you aren’t sure how to take care of your dentures, don’t worry – here’s a simple guide!
1. Use Cleaning Products Made for Dentures
Although dentures are custom-made to look and feel extremely natural, they are artificial. As a result, some chemicals are simply too harsh and, therefore, should not be used. Regular toothpaste is a great example because the abrasive ingredients can create small scratches that negatively impact the appearance of your restoration over time. So, if you want yours to last, opt for products that were made with dentures in mind!
2. Handle Your Dentures With Care
While only the best dental materials are used to make dentures, yours won’t be completely indestructible. That’s why patients are encouraged to take a few precautions, like cleaning their dentures over a sink filled with water or a soft towel. This ensures that – if you accidentally drop them – there is something to break the fall, reducing the risk of them chipping, cracking, or shattering into several pieces.
3. Take Your Dentures Out at Night
Many patients are tempted to keep their dentures on while they sleep. Unfortunately, doing so can restrict blood flow to your gums and even increase your risk of pneumonia. As a result, the best thing for your overall health and the longevity of your restoration is to take it out before you get into bed at night. This is a great opportunity to soak it in a glass of slightly warm water or a dentist-recommended cleaner so it’s fresh and clean come morning!
4. Avoid Extremely Crunchy Foods
Hard pretzels, raw almonds, tortilla chips, and popcorn are a few foods that patients with dentures are encouraged to avoid because – in addition to moving your dentures out of position – they can result in a serious chip or crack. For similar reasons, sticky sweets, like caramel-filled candies, should also be avoided. Instead, fill your plate with softer foods that are more nutrient-dense, like cooked carrots, cottage cheese, and oatmeal.
5. Visit Your Dentist Every Six Months
Oftentimes, patients who don’t have any of their natural teeth left assume that scheduling a dental visit twice a year is no longer necessary. That’s not the case! After all, your dentist uses these routine visits to screen for oral cancer, assess the health of your gums, and examine the condition of your denture.
About the Practice
With a dentist who has over 20 years of experience leading the way, patients can turn to our team at Moses Lake Family Dentistry for all of their dental needs, including when it comes time to address tooth loss head-on. If that’s the position you find yourself in, we have good news: our office is outfitted with the latest dental technology, which allows us to provide dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants that look and feel incredible. If you are interested in learning more about your tooth-replacement options, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us via our website or by phone at (509) 765-4351.