Proper denture care depends on the type of dentures and the patient’s overall oral health. Without proper care, the dentures will not last nearly as long as they can. With the proper care, patients will not need to worry about their dentures so much. However, dentures need specific care that differs from typical brushing and flossing. On this page, we break down the various form of denture care and the steps one will have to take. To begin, dentures need daily cleaning and care, just like teeth.
For a patient with removable dentures, it is crucial to remove them at night and thoroughly clean them. At least once a day, preferably at night, the individual needs to remove the dentures and carefully rinse off any loose food particles. However, the individual will not want to use typical toothpaste to clean the dentures. Regular toothpaste can actually damage the base of the dentures due to the abrasive particles in the toothpaste. There are specific denture cleaning fluids that one can purchase to use for cleaning the dentures.
We can go over where to get these solutions during a consultation. It is also wise to get a specific brush to clean the dentures. Using a brittle toothbrush can actually do more damage than good to the dentures. When cleaning these dentures, it is important to keep the dentures above a towel or soft surface. Dropping the dentures, even just a few inches above a hard surface, can cause them to crack or break. Dentures must stay wet at all times and must not become dry.
Thus, it is best to keep the dentures in water when one is not wearing them at night. In some cases, patients can keep their dentures in a cleaning solution overnight but will want to ask the dentist if that is best. By following these steps or the directions that a dentist gives, the patient will be able to continue wearing the dentures for long periods of time without damaging the dentures. We may recommend regular checkups to help keep an eye on the patient’s oral health to ensure the dentures are in working order. If the dentures are not removable and stick to the patient’s gums, then the dentist will recommend a different cleaning regimen. In many cases, caring for implant dentures will be the same as taking care of regular teeth with brushing twice a day. Patients need to take care of their gums and mouth as well.
If a patient, who wears dentures, does not take care of his or her mouth, then there is a greater chance for infection to form; even when one cares for the dentures. For patients who can remove their dentures, they need to gently brush their gums, palate and tongue. Brushing the mouth without the dentures inside it will help to prevent plaque buildup and infection. It is also crucial to seek regular oral health exams from the dentist. Even if the patient has lost all of his or her teeth, it is important to seek professional dental care on a regular basis.
A dentist will be able to tell a patient with dentures how often the patient needs to seek professional treatment. A dentist will be able to spot any damage and possible signs of infection before they spread. If the patient needs any adjustments for the dentures due to a crack or chip in the dentures, we will repair or replace the dentures if necessary. In some cases, it will be easier to replace the dentures entirely. Dentures typically last about 5 to 10 years before needing replacement. Keeping the dentures in good condition can help prevent the need for more frequent visits to the dentist.
At North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry we will go over the proper care regimen for dentures with the patient before sending them home with his or her new teeth. During this appointment, we will also answer any questions the patient may have and address any concerns before the procedure. This way, the patient will not go into the procedure with any confusion or false pretenses.
Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the function) of a person’s teeth, gums and/or bite.
Tooth decay is when the enamel of the tooth begins to decay and cause erosion from plaque and tartar on the teeth.
Dental caries are also known as cavities and result from a lack of proper oral hygiene leaving plaque that forms tiny holes in the teeth.
A dental checkup is an appointment that involves cleaning the teeth, identifying any signs of infection and removing said signs of infection at least once every six months in the office.
A dental filling involves restoring the structure of the tooth by using metal, alloy, porcelain or plastic to fill the tooth.
A dental prophylaxis is a professional and detailed cleaning that involves the removal of plaque, calculus and stains from the teeth.
Dental sealants contain a resinous material that we apply to the chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth to prevent dental caries.
A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity.
Gingivitis is the inflammation of gum tissue that results from plaque, other infections in the mouth and poor oral hygiene.
Preventive dentistry is the dentistry that focuses on maintaining oral health in order to prevent the spread of plaque, the formation of tartar and infections in the mouth.
Tartar forms when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and calcifies into a hard surface that is much more difficult to remove and will require professional treatment.
Tooth enamel is the protective visible outer surface of a tooth that contains the dentin and dental pulp.
