Four Crucial Things to Know About Caring for Your Dentures

Millions of people all around the United States – including many Long Island residents – use dentures. Dentures may be necessary for many different reasons:

— Various illnesses may restrict blood flow to the gum line, weakening the teeth.
— Tooth decay and gum disease can make it medically necessary to remove teeth.
— Damage to teeth via trauma, such as accident or injury, may require removal.

When facing any of these issues, dentures can be a good idea. Dentures help you to support your mouth, restore the aesthetics of your smile, and support ordinary chewing and speaking.

However, getting dentures is another step in dental health – not the end! It’s important that you take certain steps to care for your dentures, just as you did with your original teeth.

How To Clean Your Dentures: Four Important Steps

As a denture user, you should regularly clean your dentures. Keeping dentures clean supports the health of your gums, reducing bacteria growth inside your mouth. Let’s look at important steps.

1) Rinse Your Dentures After Each Meal

Just like original teeth, dentures should be cleaned after meals. You can remove food particles by rinsing your dentures in lukewarm water. Be careful not to drop your dentures while cleaning them, since they can shatter. Many people have an emergency second pair of dentures.

2) Clean Your Mouth While Your Dentures Are Out

A soft-bristled toothbrush can be used to clean your original teeth. Also consider cleaning your tongue and palette. While these areas do not “decay” like teeth, bacteria can colonize soft tissue and lead to bad breath.

3) Scrub Your Dentures Once a Day

Many forms of dishwashing liquid can be used to scrub your dentures. This is more intensive than the rinsing you do after meals. Always use a soft brush when cleaning your dentures, as harsh brushes or cleaners can cause damage.

4) Soak Your Dentures Each Night

Soaking dentures overnight is crucial to helping them maintain their shape. Most Long Island patients prefer purpose-made denture cleaning solution. If your dentures have metal components, avoid using chlorinated solutions on them.

Getting custom-fitted dentures made is an important step in long-term oral health. To find out how Stony Brook Family Dentistry can help, call us today. We’ll be glad to discuss your specific needs – we are the trusted family dentist of thousands in Long Island!