For many people, dentures are a part of their daily lives. They allow individuals to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. However, like any other general dentistry appliance, they require proper care and maintenance to last longer.
Do you need a new pair of dentures issued, fitted, or adjusted? If so, contact Dr. Thomas W. Wegner at Town and Country Dental in Oak Park, IL, at (708) 383-0330 now!
If you’re new to dentures, then you may be wondering how to get the most out of your investment. In this blog post, we discuss some tips on how to make your dentures last longer.
1. Clean Your Dentures Daily
Cleaning your dentures daily is essential to keep them in good working condition. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a denture brush to remove food particles, plaque, and stains from your dentures.
Be gentle while cleaning to avoid damaging the surface of your dentures. Rinse your dentures thoroughly under running water after cleaning.
2. Handle Your Appliance with Care
Handle your dentures with care to avoid accidental drops and breakage. When cleaning your dentures, place a towel or a soft cloth on the counter or sink to avoid damaging them if they fall.
Furthermore, it is best to avoid using abrasive cleaning products, as they can scratch the surface of your dentures. Microabrasions in dental appliances are problematic because they can trap disease-causing bacteria, which can affect your oral and overall health. So, steer clear of whitening toothpastes, baking soda, and other abrasive products that can easily scratch your appliance.
3. Soak Your Dentures Overnight
Soaking your dentures overnight helps to remove bacteria, plaque, and stains that may have accumulated on them during the day. Use a denture-soaking solution or plain water to soak your dentures.
Don’t forget–rinse your dentures thoroughly under cool, running water before wearing them the next morning.
4. Avoid Hot Water
Avoid soaking or rinsing your dentures in hot water, as high temperatures can cause them to warp or lose their shape. Use only lukewarm or cool water to clean and store your dentures.
5. Avoid Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Repairs
Avoid using DIY repairs to fix any problems with your dentures. Using glue, tape, or other adhesives can damage your dentures and make them harder to repair (maybe even impossible to repair).
If you have any issues with your dentures, schedule an appointment with your dentist to have them professionally repaired. Only a trained professional can make the proper adjustments or repairs necessary for comfortable denture wear.
6. Avoid Certain Foods
Dentists recommend staying away from hard or sticky foods that can damage your dentures, such as;
- Hard candy
- Popcorn
- Nuts
Also, avoid using your dentures to open packaging or bottles, as it can break or chip them.
7. Schedule Regular Checkups
Regular check-ups with your dentist ensure that your dentures are in good condition. Your dentist can detect any problems with your dentures early on and recommend the necessary repairs or adjustments. Additionally, your dentist can advise you on proper denture care and maintenance to make them last longer.
Dentures in Oak Park, IL
On average, most dentures can last between 10 and 15 years. Get the most out of your dentures by scheduling regular visits with Dr. Wegner at Town and Country Dental in Oak Park, IL. New and existing patients can fill out appointment requests online, or they may call our dental office at (708) 383-0330.