People often assume that because dentures aren’t real teeth, they don’t require the same amount of care and maintenance as natural teeth. However, this isn’t true. All dentures, whether partial or full, need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly to prevent bacteria and stains. With proper care, both your dentures and mouth can stay in good shape. At Reynolds Family Dentistry, your trusted dentist in Richmond, we offer the following tips to help you take care of your dentures:

Rinsing:
After every meal or snack, and after brushing your teeth, remove and rinse your dentures. The water helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Always handle your dentures carefully and avoid using hot water.

Brushing:
It’s essential to brush your dentures just as you would your natural teeth. Every morning and night, brush your gums, tongue, the roof of your mouth, and any remaining natural teeth. To prevent damage if your dentures fall, place towels around your sink and on hard surfaces. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid harsh cleaning solutions. Water, denture paste, or non-abrasive toothpaste are recommended. Contact our dental office for specific recommendations on safe denture cleaning.

Removing Adhesives:
Remove any adhesive residue by gargling with warm saltwater. Use a clean washcloth to clean your gums and the roof of your mouth before rinsing again with warm water. For stubborn adhesive bits, gently brush your gums with a soft toothbrush.

Soaking Overnight:
Soak your dentures overnight in a denture cleaning solution or water. You can also use a fast-acting cleanser before storing your dentures in water. Be sure to follow the instructions on the denture cleaner package. When cleaning a partial denture, use a solution specifically designed for partial dentures.

When not wearing them, always submerge your partial or full dentures in water or denture solution. The acrylic can dry out over time and lose its shape, leading to the dentures becoming brittle and not fitting well. Dentures contain hundreds of microscopic holes, so keeping them moist is crucial to prolong their life. When dentures dry out, the following problems can occur:

• Discomfort: Moisture keeps dentures pliable, making them comfortable to wear.
• Contamination: Soaking dentures in a cleaning solution overnight helps keep them clean and eliminates harmful bacteria.
• Brittleness: Dry dentures become brittle and are more likely to break if dropped. If your dentures break, you will have to start the entire process over again.

Make sure you see your dentist regularly to have your mouth and dentures examined and cleaned. For more tips on maintaining your dentures or to schedule an appointment, contact Reynolds Family Dentistry, your reliable dentist in Richmond.