Humans have been using false teeth for thousands of years. The earliest crude form of dentures dates to 700 B.C. They were made by the Etruscans who used ivory as a base and hand-carved animal bones for the teeth. Thanks to technology, current dentures are incredibly lifelike, durable, and comfortable. But they still require care so you can maintain excellent oral health and help them to last as long as possible. Here are four tips on how to best care for your dentures so you can get the most out of our smile!
Tip #1: Brush Your Dentures Daily
As with your natural teeth, dentures need to be brushed for at least two minutes every day. Since they are worn while eating, you want to clean them so they can be free of any bacteria, plaque, and food particles to keep issues like gum disease away. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture-specific toothpaste to thoroughly scrub your prosthetic. Be sure not to use any harsh tools or products, like peroxide, that could cause damage to them.
Tip #2: Soak Your Dentures Overnight
Dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. When you call it a night, soak them in a glass of water or denture cleaning solution. Hot water can warp the material and cause them to lose their fit, so be sure to use room-temperature water. In the morning, rinse them before placing them back in your mouth.
Tip #3: Handle Your Dentures with Care
Your dentures are durable, but you still need to be careful when you take them out to avoid accidentally cracking or breaking them. When you remove your prosthetics, wash them over a sink filled with water or a clean, folded towel so something will break their fall in case you drop them. When you are not wearing your dentures (and not soaking them), place your dentures in a special case to keep them safe from harm.
Tip #4: Maintain Regular Checkups
Whether you have a partial or full set of dentures, dental checkups are still important to keep your them in top shape, along with your oral health. Your dentist can examine and professionally clean them, which helps them last longer. They will also make sure that your prosthetic still fits correctly and that your gums are remaining healthy. By keeping your dentures and mouth healthy, you will decrease the risk of infection or inflammation.
Prosthetics give a full, complete smile so you go through life with confidence. By taking great care of your dentures with these helpful tips, you will get the most out of them for years to come!
About the Author
Cornerstone Dental serves Fargo and the surrounding areas under the expertise of Dr. Stacy Goodwill and Dr. Jessica Majidian. They provide a range of services to help with tooth replacement, from dental bridges, implants, or dentures. With the goal of fully restoring your smile, they offer denture options, from traditional to implant-supported models. If you need to schedule a checkup for your prosthetics or need more information about best care practices, contact them through their website or by phone at (701) 237-1491.