When it comes to teeth, plenty of people are missing a few — or more than a few.
More than 36 million Americans don’t have any teeth (the technical term for this is edentulous), while 120 million people are missing at least one tooth. About 90% of those without any teeth have dentures to replace their teeth.
You might think having dentures is the beginning and end of the story, but it turns out that plaque and food particles can build up on dentures just like they can on natural teeth, so you must take care of them as well.
Here’s what you need to know about taking care of your dentures from the expert team at Portrait Dental.
Just like with your natural teeth, you should brush at least twice daily. (After every meal is ideal.) Take your dentures out, run clean water over them to remove food particles, and brush them with a soft-bristled brush and a mild, non-abrasive dental cleanser. Do not use toothpaste — it is too abrasive and will scratch your dentures.
You should, however, use toothpaste to brush the inside of your mouth, including any remaining natural teeth you may have.
Whenever your dentures are out of your mouth, you should handle them carefully. When you’re cleaning your dentures, place a folded towel on the counter or in the sink, so your dentures won’t break or be damaged if you drop them. Also make sure you don’t damage or bend any plastic or clasps on the dentures.
Dentures are durable, but both your dentures and your mouth need a daily break to stay at their best. Take your dentures out before you go to bed, and soak them in either water or a gentle dental cleanser. This will keep them from warping, so they hold their shape.
You should still see your dentist at least twice a year so that your dentist and their team can professionally examine and clean your dentures. They will also make sure your dentures still fit correctly, allowing you to avoid any looseness, slippage, or discomfort.
If you want to explore the possibility of dentures or if you need your dentures checked, the team at Portrait Dental will be happy to help you. If you call our office or use our convenient online scheduler, we’ll get you set up with an appointment and set you on the path to better oral health!
