Keep Your Smile Healthy With Proper Denture Maintenance
Dentures offer a reliable way to restore your smile, but proper care is essential to keep them functioning well and looking great. Without regular maintenance, dentures can become uncomfortable, ill-fitting, or even harmful to your oral health.
At Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, we’re committed to helping our Wilmington and Seaford patients enjoy long-lasting, comfortable dentures through comprehensive care and guidance.
If you have questions about maintaining your dentures, contact our office in Wilmington at (302) 999-7600 or Seaford at (302) 536-7589.
Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Your Dentures
Proper denture care ensures they remain comfortable, hygienic, and effective. Follow these tips from Dr. Paul Brown and Dr. Chris Baran to extend the life of your dentures:
1. Clean Your Dentures Daily
Dentures should be cleaned daily to remove food particles and prevent the buildup of bacteria. Use a soft-bristled brush and denture-specific cleanser to clean your dentures. Avoid regular toothpaste, which can scratch the denture surface, allowing bacteria to accumulate. Rinse your dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth to remove any residue.
2. Handle Your Dentures With Care
Dentures are delicate and can break if dropped or mishandled. It’s crucial to handle your dentures carefully. Clean them over a soft surface, such as a towel or a basin filled with water, to cushion accidental falls.
3. Soak Overnight for Freshness
Soak your dentures in lukewarm water or a denture-soaking solution overnight. However, make sure you follow instructions for soaking dentures. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the denture material, leading to a poor fit.
4. Store Them Properly
Store dentures in a clean, dry container with a lid to protect them from dust and damage when not in use. Make sure the container is placed in a safe location where it won’t be accidentally dropped or knocked over
5. Seek Repair When Needed
If your dentures are damaged or ill-fitting, visit our Wilmington and Seaford dentists to have it repaired. If you try to fix broken dentures yourself, it can cause further damage and potentially render the denture unusable.
6. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Just because you have dentures doesn’t mean you should neglect your oral hygiene. Clean your gums, tongue, and any natural teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Proper oral hygiene prevents gum disease and keeps your mouth healthy for wearing dentures.
7. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health and to monitor your dentures’ fit and condition. Our Wilmington and Seaford dentists will examine your gums and recommend adjustments, relining, or replacement as needed.
Advanced Denture Care Solutions
If traditional denture care isn’t enough, you may consider these advanced options:
- Ultrasonic Denture Cleaners: These devices use high-frequency sound waves to clean hard-to-reach areas.
- Denture Stabilizers: Products like denture adhesives can improve comfort and security for loose-fitting dentures.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Dentures
Even with excellent care, dentures don’t last forever. Watch for these signs that indicate you might need a replacement:
- Visible Damage: Cracks, chips, or worn-down teeth that affect function or appearance.
- Loose Fit: Dentures that slip, irritate your gums, or cause difficulty speaking or chewing.
- Persistent Discomfort: Irritation or sores from ill-fitting dentures.
- Stains and Odors: Over time, discoloration and odors can become difficult to remove, even with proper cleaning.
If you experience any of these issues, contact our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589 to schedule an evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Regular toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch dentures. Use a non-abrasive denture cleanser to prevent damage and ensure effective cleaning.
Never attempt to repair broken dentures yourself. Contact your dentist immediately to have them professionally repaired or replaced to avoid further damage.
To prevent your dentures from becoming stained, you should limit the consumption of staining beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine. Quit smoking, as it can cause persistent discoloration and odors.
Partner With Brown and Baran Family Dentistry for Long-Lasting Dentures
At Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, we believe in empowering our patients to enjoy their smiles with confidence. Our comprehensive denture care services ensure you get the most out of your dentures while maintaining excellent oral health.
Call our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589 today to schedule your appointment. We proudly serve patients from Wilmington, Seaford, and surrounding communities across Delaware.