We always talk about proper care and maintenance of your dentures, but what does that mean? Here are the 15 principles that an American Dental Association task force identified as being crucial to taking proper care of your complete dentures.
Removing the Biofilm on Dentures Daily Is Essential to Protecting Oral and General Health.
Daily cleaning can reduce the risk of denture stomatitis (sores on your gums, which may affect up to 20% of denture wearers).
Denture Cleansing Requires Three Steps for Maximum Benefit:
- Brush dentures thoroughly with a proven, nonabrasive denture cleanser.
- Soak dentures in cleaning solution.
- Rinse dentures thoroughly with water before inserting them back in your mouth.
Denture cleansers should only be used when dentures are out of your mouth.
Annual Cleaning of Dentures by a Dentist or Professional Denture Cleaner Can Reduce Biofilm.
Evidence is weak, but it shows marginal benefit.
Never Place Dentures in Boiling Water.
It can damage your dentures.
Dentures Should Not Be Soaked in Sodium Hypochlorite Solutions for More Than 10 Minutes.
Longer than this could damage the dentures.
When You’re Not Wearing Them, Store Dentures in Water.
This helps avoid warping.
A Small Amount of Denture Adhesive Not Only Helps Dentures Remain Secure, It Creates a Seal That Keeps Food Particles from Getting under Dentures.
This is true even for well-fitting dentures. Denture adhesive improves the feeling of stability, but not bite function with dentures.
There Is Little Evidence of the Long-Term Impact of Denture Adhesive on Gums.
It’s important to see your dentist at least every six months to determine whether it is impacting your gums. Denture adhesive should only be used in appropriate amounts.
Denture Adhesive Should Be Completely Removed from Dentures During Cleaning.
Also make sure you get it all out of your mouth.
If You Need More Adhesive Than Before, See Your Dentist.
This is a sign that you may need to have your dentures refitted.
Do Not Wear Your Dentures 24 Hours a Day.
Except sometimes during the first day you have them to help improve fit. Otherwise, it encourages bacterial growth.
You Should Have Your Dentures Checked for Fit and Function by a Dentist Every Year.
Your denture dentist should also assess your oral health status, including the state of bone loss under your dentures.
We Can Help Improve Your Dentures
How did you do? Are you following all fifteen guidelines? Or do you need to revise your denture care habits? Perhaps you may even want to start your new improved denture care routine with brand new, great-fitting FOY® Dentures.
To learn more about denture care or get fitted for new dentures, please contact Smile Columbia Dentistry in Columbia, SC today.
