Keeping your dentures (& gums) clean and happy!

By October 27, 2013Dentures, Hints and Tips
how to keep dentures clean

Well-fitted dentures should be a joy to wear, and providing they’re looked after, should last you a good 5 to 7 years.

Taking care of your dentures should not be a chore. All that’s involved are a few simple, painless procedures that hopefully become healthy habits, not hard work!

Dentures need to be cared for, too!

Just like your natural teeth, dentures require care and attention. They may not get cavities, but if you have either partial dentures or full dentures, it’s essential to maintain the proper oral health of your gums and mouth. If your gums and mouth are not cleaned properly, the potential for an accumulation of plaque is increased. Plaque is a type of bacteria that collects at the gum line and can harden onto the teeth

It’s crucial to look after your dentures properly. Well-fitted dentures should be a joy to wear and provided that they are looked after, should last you a good five to seven years. After this time, it’s normal to have them replaced, even with the best of care. Over time, it’s inevitable that the teeth will become a little stained and discoloured. Also, there will be natural changes to the structures of your face and mouth, so it’s vital that you keep your regular check-ups with your dentist or prosthetist so they can make regular adjustments to your dentures.

Regular Check-ups are Vital

For denture wearers, it’s extremely important to keep plaque at bay as dentures can cause the plaque to be pushed down further underneath the gum line than with normal teeth, making cleaning more difficult. When left unchecked, cavities can occur, particularly on root surfaces – a situation best avoided. Professional cleaning with your oral hygienist can keep this problem at bay.

Lucas Lang Dentures Plus Perth

Wearing dentures every day puts extra pressure on your gums and surrounding bone structure. If you don’t keep them both clean, you may experience pain, soreness, irritation or bone and tissue loss. This is another reason to keep in contact with your oral hygienist or dental prosthetist.

Use a denture brush to optimise your denture health and hygiene

Checklist for Your Optimal Health with Dentures

  • Rinse and brush your natural teeth and dentures (or implant-supported dentures) after every meal.
  • Use a denture brush & correct cleaning moves, as recommended by your hygienist, gently brushing your dentures.
  • At the least, make sure you wash both your dentures and natural teeth with water – if your present circumstances prevent you from properly cleaning your teeth.
  • Wash your mouth frequently with water to keep your mouth free from bacteria and keep your breath fresh.
  • Floss between your natural teeth and stimulate your gums daily, as recommended by your dental hygienist.
  • Overnight, remove your dentures for several hours to give your supporting tissues (in your gums & jaw) a rest. Usually recommended overnight.
  • Clean your dentures by brushing them with a soft brush and a little soap and water. (Or a nonabrasive toothpaste, if preferred) Rinse them and leave them to dry overnight on a small hand towel next to your basin. There’s no need to soak them in water/Polident and water overnight, which used to be the standard protocol for denture care.
  • Visit your dental hygienist every six to 12 months
  • Visit your dental prosthetist annually to correct the fit of the dentures, adjusting or replacing as he/she sees fit.

If you think it’s time for a checkup or visit to our oral hygienist, call us today. We have Denture Clinics in Joondalup, Maddington, Leeming & Leederville.

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Keep your dentures clean & happy – book a check-up today!
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