7 top tips for keeping your dentures like new
If you’re one of the many Australians who have either partial of full dentures, you’ll know that they need extra care. Keep them in tip-top condition with these seven golden rules.
1. Give them a break
Both your mouth and dentures need a break for between six to eight hours per day. This gives your mouth tissue time to recover and your dentures time to be cleaned and sterilised. Most people take their dentures out overnight and leave to soak in a denture cleanser which helps remove stains, plague, tartar and bacteria.
2. Handle with care
Dentures are a necessary expense. Easily breakable, the last thing you want it to have them broken. Always clean over a folded towel or bowl of water in case you accidently drop them. Never use toothpicks or hard brushes on them and keep out of reach of children and pets.
3. Clean them daily
Dentures may not be your ‘real’ teeth but this doesn’t make them immune from the build up of stains, plaque and tartar. Plaque in particular can lead to infection and irritation in the gums underneath. Brush your dentures daily with a soft bristled or denture specific toothbrush and toothpaste.
4. Take care of your mouth
Even if you have complete dentures, you still need to take care of your gums. Whenever you take out your dentures, give your mouth a rinse and massage your gums with a soft toothbrush.
5. See your dentist
Having dentures doesn’t mean that regular dentist visits are a thing of the past. You should still see your dentist yearly to ensure good oral hygiene.
6. Watch for changes in fit
If your dentures become uncomfortable, it’s important to visit your dentist. The gums and bones in our mouth can change over time, which leads to issues with fit. Adjusting your dentures is a quick and easy process, so don’t delay.
7. Nourish the rest of your body
Dentures can make eating some foods difficult. Ensure you’re eating well and fuelling your body with the essential nutrients it needs.
When was the last time you got to the dentist? Let us know in the comments below.
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