Caring for your dentures doesn’t have to be complicated. Philadelphia dentist Dr. Len Tau explains how to keep your prosthetic teeth in tip-top shape. When it comes to maintaining your dentures, you should (almost) treat them as you would natural teeth. The major difference between cleaning natural and prosthetic teeth is the toothpaste. Dr. Tau urges his patients not to use toothpaste to clean their dentures, as it’s too abrasive and can easily scratch prosthetic teeth. When your dentures become scratched, the small grooves are an ideal place for bacteria to accumulate, which could cause your dentures to develop a foul odor.
Regardless of whether you have implant-retained or traditional dentures, you should attend a biannual checkup to examine the condition of your prosthetic teeth. At your consultation, Dr. Tau will determine if you need a new set of dentures or if your original pair should be refitted.
Brushing Your Dentures
Just as you would natural teeth, dentures should be brushed every morning and night. After each meal, Dr. Tau encourages patients to rinse their dentures under cool water to remove food particles. You should brush your dentures with a soft bristled toothbrush or a special denture toothbrush, which can be found at your local grocery store. These brushes aren’t as harsh as other toothbrushes, which means the bristles won’t scratch the dentures.
Rather than using toothpaste, denture patients should clean their teeth with water or cleanser. Dr. Tau instructs patients to remove their dentures before going to sleep to allow gum tissue time to rest. Each night, you should place your dentures in a glass of cool water or cleansing solution to prevent them from drying out.
Aside from just brushing your dentures, you should brush your tongue, gums, and natural teeth. Bacteria that cause bad breath are found on the surface of the tongue. Brushing your gums will remove harmful bacteria and prevent the development of periodontal disease.
The Next Step in Denture Care
After you brush your dentures, gums, natural teeth, and tongue, you should use an antibacterial mouthwash to remove harmful bacteria. Mouthwash should be used after you take out your dentures.
Bacteria build up can lead to gum disease, an irreversible oral condition that ruins periodontal health. Gum disease has been linked to cardiovascular disease, higher risk of stroke, and diabetes.
Once you’ve used an antibacterial mouthwash, Dr. Tau recommends using a tongue scraper. This inexpensive dental tool removes bad breath bacteria from the surface of the tongue.
Helpful Tips for Top-Notch Denture Care
Philadelphia dentist Dr. Tau instructs his patients to use cool water when maintaining their dentures. Hot water can warp or damage prosthetic teeth.
Dentures should be replaced every five to ten years. If you’re unsure whether it’s time for new dentures, simply attend a dental checkup. Dr. Tau will look at the condition and fit of your prosthetic teeth and decide if the teeth should be replaced or just refit.
A crucial factor in denture maintenance is attending regular dental appointments with Dr. Tau. Not only will he assess the condition of your dentures, but he will also examine your gums.