How to Care for Your Dentures

Dentures require proper care and maintenance just like natural teeth. By taking good care of your dentures, you can keep them free from stains and extend their longevity. The following is a list of helpful tips from your Albuquerque dentist, Dr. Mark Miller.

Best Practices for Denture Care

• You should always remove and rinse your dentures after eating. Take them out of your mouth and carefully run water over them at the sink. Be sure to place a towel at the bottom of the sink in case you drop them. Dentures are durable, but they can still break when dropped under the right conditions.
• Be sure to scrub your dentures at least once a day with a denture cleaner or mild soap. Dishwashing liquid also works for this particular application. Your dentures are subject to the same plaque buildup as your natural teeth. While your dentures may not actually decay, they can stain and plaque can contribute to infection of the gums. Use a denture brush or any other soft-bristled brush to remove food and plaque. Do not use hard-bristled brushes and harsh toothpaste. These can damage your dentures. You should especially avoid toothpaste with whitening properties, as these are very hard on dentures.
• Soak your dentures overnight in denture solution. Otherwise, they may not retain their shape. Be sure to rinse your dentures off before wearing them again as the particular solution used to soak dentures can cause vomiting, pain, and even burn, if swallowed. Never place them in hot water, as this may cause them to change shape.
• Never try to repair dentures yourself. Doing so can damage them and weaken their structure.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Taking care of your oral health is also an important aspect of good denture care. Good oral hygiene is essential. You should always use a soft-bristled brush to clean your gums, tongue, and palate. This removes plaque and food particles. Plaque causes infection that leads to tooth decay and gum disease. This also promotes circulation in your mouth. Be diligent in cleaning the teeth that fit under your denture clasps. If you wear a partial denture, remove it before brushing your teeth. You should also massage your gums and rinse them with lukewarm salt water. This will help keep them clean.

Schedule an Appointment

If you have questions about denture care, or if you are considering dentures, please call our Albuquerque dentist office at (505) 596-4479 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Miller. We serve patients from Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Corrales, Los Lunas, Tijeras, Mountain Air, Santa Fe, and Taos.

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