If you wear dentures, there are a few things you should know about them. While they're an excellent way to replace missing teeth, they do need to be taken care of properly. Failure to care for your dentures and your mouth can leave you with serious problems. Here is some information that you should know about your dentures.
Your Mouth Still Needs to Be Cleaned
You've had all your natural teeth extracted. You don't have to clean your mouth anymore. Right? Wrong. Even if all your teeth have been removed, your mouth will still need to be cleaned daily. Failure to keep your mouth clean can cause bacteria to grow, which can lead to mouth sores, oral infections and bad breath. Remove your dentures and clean your gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush twice a day.
Mouth Sores Should Be Treated Quickly
When you first get your dentures, they may not fit properly. This is particularly true if you begin wearing your dentures right after your natural teeth have been extracted. After extractions, your gums are swollen, which means your dentures will be snug for a few days. As your dentures rub up against your swollen gums, you may develop sores.
If that happens, you need to contact your dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will be able to adjust your dentures and reduce the chances of developing additional sores. They'll be able to adjust your dentures so they fit better. To help the sores heal, you should rinse with salt water at least three times a day.
Your Mouth Will Need Occasional Breaks
Now that you have dentures, you might be tempted to wear them 24/7. Unfortunately, that's not a good idea. Your gums are going to need some time to breathe. Go ahead and wear your dentures during the day. Before you go to bed, remove your dentures. Here are just a few of the problems you could face if you leave your dentures in around the clock.
- Misshapen gums
- Mouth sores
- Infections
Dentures Need To Be Cleaned and Deodorized
Your dentures will need to be cleaned and deodorized on a daily basis. Bacteria can build up on your dentures, which can lead to odors and infections. Here's an easy way to keep your dentures clean and odor-free.
Supplies You'll Need
- Small bowl
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Denture brush
Directions
- Pour ½ cup of vinegar into a small bowl.
- Add 2 tablespoons baking soda to the bowl.
- Place your dentures in the bowl.
- Leave your dentures in the solution overnight
- Use your denture brush to thoroughly scrub your dentures.
- Rinse your dentures with clear water.
If this is your first time wearing dentures, you're going to need some time to get used to them. The tips provided here will help you take care of your dentures. If your dentures become too painful to wear, or you develop mouth sores that don't go away, be sure to consult a dentist like those at Discovery Dental as soon as possible.
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