Denture Care 101: The 5 Best Methods for Taking Care of Your Prosthetics

For missing teeth, dentures are life-altering. They can instantly bring back the look and function of your mouth. This restores not only your ability to eat and speak but also your confidence and your social spark.

If you want to learn the best ways to take care of your dentures, continue reading. You’ll find five expert tips to get the most out of your smile.

1. Perform a Daily Cleaning Regimen

You can’t take care of your dentures like you do with regular teeth. They must be removed to be cleaned, and you can’t use a regular toothbrush or paste as they’re too abrasive. So, snag a denture-friendly cleaner and brush, then use cool water to gently scrub every surface of your prosthetic.

Do this each day to ensure that there are no leftover food particles or other debris left anywhere on them.

2. Soak Your Dentures and Drink Water

Once your cleaning regimen is complete, don’t forget to soak them at night! You can do this by placing them in a glass of cold water or in a denture-cleaning solution. It’s important that your prosthetic stays moist to help it keep its shape and stay suctioned to your gums.

You can also help this process by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Not only will this help your dentures stay hydrated, but it will help clean them as well.

3. Take Care When Handling

Despite their use of durable materials, dentures are easily broken if they fall or if they’re not being cared for. When you take your dentures out, handle them gently and place a towel down across your sink to absorb impact if you accidentally drop them.

If your dentures do break, don’t wear them. See your dentist as soon as possible to get them repaired.

4. Brush Your Remaining Teeth, Gums, and Tongue

You may be missing teeth, but that doesn’t mean that oral care stops once the dentures come in. Your gums are vulnerable to bacteria, especially if you’re an older person or don’t take care of your mouth. Gum disease has a much higher chance of occurring in patients who use dentures.

Use a toothbrush to brush any remaining teeth you have as well as your tongue and your gums. Do this at least twice per day to ensure that your mouth stays fresh and healthy.

5. Get Regular Dental Checkups

Your dentist is your best source for information and guidance when it comes to your oral health. It’s a good idea to see your dentist at least twice a year to have them check for any signs of gum disease or damage to your dentures.

They can catch any complications before they turn into big problems and will be able to have your dentures repaired if needed.

Your dentures are more than a prosthetic, they’re your ticket to a quality of life you wouldn’t have otherwise. If you need help with maintaining them or have any burning questions about your oral health in general, call your dentist and schedule an appointment. They’ll be happy to see you.

About the Author

Dr. Mahima Gupta loves to see her patients leave an appointment with big smiles on their faces. Her passion is caring for others and ensuring that they get what they need to be happy and healthy. After completing dental school in India, Dr. Gupta moved to the US and graduated from the New York University College of Dentistry. Since then she has spent hundreds of hours attaining more knowledge and skill through professional organizations. To schedule a denture consultation at Lancaster Family Smiles, call (469) 729-7707 or visit the website to explore other services.