Many people assume that dentures don’t require the same level of care and maintenance as natural teeth, but this isn’t true. Whether you have partial or full dentures, they need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly to prevent bacteria buildup and stains. Proper care of your dentures, as well as your mouth, is essential to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips from Barrett Family Dental, your trusted dentist in Tacoma, to help you take care of your dentures:

Rinsing

After every meal or snack, and after brushing your teeth, remove and rinse your dentures. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Always handle your dentures carefully and avoid using hot water, as it can warp the dentures.

Brushing

Just as with natural teeth, brushing your dentures is crucial. Every morning and night, brush your gums, tongue, the roof of your mouth, and any natural teeth you may have. Place towels around your sink and on the floor to prevent damage if your dentures fall. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid abrasive cleaning solutions. Water, denture paste, or non-abrasive toothpaste are best. If you need recommendations on safe cleaning products, contact our dental office.

Removing Adhesives

To remove adhesive residue, gargle with warm saltwater. Then, use a clean washcloth to gently clean your gums and the roof of your mouth before rinsing again with warm water. For stubborn adhesive bits, use a soft toothbrush on your gums.

Soaking Overnight

Soak your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or water overnight. You can also use a fast-acting cleanser before storing your dentures in water. Follow the instructions on the denture cleaner package. If you have partial dentures, use a solution specifically designed for them.

When not wearing your dentures, always submerge them in water or a denture solution. The acrylic material can dry out and lose its shape, leading to brittle dentures that don’t fit well. Keeping dentures moist is crucial to prolong their life. When dentures dry out, several issues can occur:

• Discomfort: Moisture keeps dentures pliable and comfortable in your mouth.
• Contamination: Soaking dentures in a cleaning solution at night helps eliminate harmful bacteria.
• Brittleness: Dry dentures are more likely to break if dropped. Broken dentures require a replacement, starting the process over again.

Make sure to visit Barrett Family Dental, your reliable dentist in Tacoma, regularly to have your mouth and dentures examined and cleaned. Contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment and ensure your dentures stay in excellent condition.