If you don't wear dentures currently, there's a good chance that you will at some future point. Millions of people around the world have been fitted with artificial dental plates, bridges, and other forms of denture appliances to make their smile more attractive and to help them eat more easily. Teeth help us to talk, to eat, and to express ourselves in a variety of situations, and without them may put us at a loss. That is why an average person may spend thousands of dollars to regain use of lost teeth by getting dentures.
After getting your dentures, you don't want to forget about their care. It may be tempting to stop brushing if several teeth have been pulled and replaced by an artificial device. But you need to keep dentures clean and in good condition if you want them to last. Your dentist or hygienist will explain how to brush, soak, and otherwise clean your dentures when you receive them. There are several steps to be followed, and taking shortcuts may lead to stained, broken, or ill-fitting teeth that could become increasingly uncomfortable.
1. Use a dental adhesive to get your dentures to fit properly. Stuffing them into your mouth any old way can lead to sores or an improper fit, which could throw off your chewing and speech. Work with your dentures at first until you develop a routine for getting them into your mouth smoothly and easily. It won't take long, and the results will be worth it. If the adhesive irritates your mouth or doesn't work right, ask your dentist to recommend another product. He or she may be able to provide samples.
2. Brush your dentures daily. Use the toothpaste recommended by your dentist. Treat them as well as you would your original teeth. Then soak them in the suggested solution overnight unless you plan to wear them while sleeping. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove excess toothpaste or soaking solution. Use mouthwash as needed for extra anti-bacterial assistance and oral freshness.
3. Report any problems to your dentist. If the dentures chip, bend, or otherwise get broken or warped, let your dentist know so they can be quickly repaired. Leaving them out of your mouth for more than a day or two may cause your mouth to regain its former position, which will make it difficult to start wearing the dentures again when they have been repaired or replaced. Also let the dentist know if you experience any sores, a bad taste, or other generalized problems with your mouth after you begin wearing dentures.
Denture care is not difficult, but it needs to be practiced consistently for good results. Don't neglect any remaining original teeth you have, but rather give them great care to keep them as long as possible. Let your dentist know if you develop tooth sensitivity or discomfort that may signal a cavity. Heading off major problems can help your dentures to work more effectively and for longer periods of time.
