Safeguard Your Dentures: 5 Common Care Errors You Should Avoid
Dentures offer a life-changing solution for people dealing with missing teeth, restoring their ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently. However, like natural teeth, dentures need proper care to ensure they remain in top condition. Avoiding common mistakes can help extend the life of your dentures and protect your oral health.
Here are five denture care mistakes you should steer clear of:
1. Not Wearing Your Dentures Regularly
It might seem like giving your gums a break by leaving your dentures out often is harmless, but skipping wear time can lead to long-term issues. Dentures help maintain proper jaw alignment and stimulate the tissues and muscles in your mouth. When you don’t wear them consistently, you risk bone loss and misalignment, which can affect how your dentures fit over time. To keep your gums and jaw healthy, wear your dentures as recommended by your denturist.
2. Sleeping with Dentures In
Wearing your dentures to bed is one of the most common mistakes, but it’s a habit you should break. Dentures can trap bacteria against your gums, increasing the risk of infections, irritation, and even fungal issues like oral thrush. Your gums need time to breathe and recover. To avoid these problems, remove your dentures before bed and store them in water or a denture solution overnight to keep them moist.
3. Skipping Daily Cleaning
Even though dentures are not natural teeth, they still require daily cleaning to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. Failing to clean your dentures regularly can lead to bad breath, gum irritation, and even infections. Just like you brush your teeth, make it a habit to clean your dentures at least once a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a denture-safe cleaner after meals to keep them fresh and free from buildup.
4. Improper Cleaning Techniques
Using the wrong cleaning techniques can damage your dentures, affecting their fit and appearance. Avoid using hot water, abrasive cleaners, or harsh chemicals, as these can warp or wear down the material. It’s also important to handle your dentures with care—clean them over a soft surface or a sink filled with water to avoid breaking them if they slip. Stick to a gentle, soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive cleaner designed for dentures to keep them in great shape.
5. DIY Repairs
When dentures break or feel uncomfortable, some people attempt at-home repairs using super glue or other household adhesives. This can be a costly mistake. DIY repairs often cause further damage to the structure of the denture, making it difficult to fit properly. Moreover, adhesives may contain harmful chemicals that are unsafe to put in your mouth. If your dentures need repair or adjustment, always seek help from a professional denturist. This ensures your dentures are properly fitted and comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these five common mistakes can significantly improve the longevity of your dentures and ensure your mouth stays healthy. Proper denture care involves consistent wear, daily cleaning, and professional maintenance when needed. At Beausejour Denture Clinic, we’re committed to helping you maintain the health and functionality of your dentures. If you have any concerns or need adjustments, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional care. By taking these simple steps, you’ll protect your smile and enjoy the benefits of well-maintained dentures for years to come.
