Dentures have long been a trusted solution for people who have lost a significant number of teeth. They are easy to maintain after you know how to take care of them — but there are a few specific things you should know about caring for your new teeth.
First of all, are you cleaning your denture properly? And what about overnight soaking, is it really all that necessary? Yes. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about adjusting to and caring for your dentures in Burlington.
#1: Adjusting Takes Time
When you first get your denture, you may notice you have a lot of extra saliva in your mouth. Don’t worry — that’s just your body’s way of adjusting to the new prosthetic. Eating and speaking may be a little challenging at first, too. Take smaller bites and practice reading out loud to get used to both. Keep wearing your denture as recommended and you’ll progress through the adjustment phase quickly.
#2: Overnight Soaking Is Key
Don’t make the mistake of thinking all denture cleansing options are equal — an overnight soak is slow, but it is the best way to kill the harmful bacteria that leads to gum disease and bad breath. In fact, soaking your denture while you sleep at night kills 99.9% of germs. Doing a quick soak as desired throughout the day can provide additional help for killing bacteria and freshening up when you feel like you need it.
#3: Dry Mouth Poses a Risk
Patients who have dry mouth as a result of certain medications, tobacco use, or health conditions are at a higher risk of developing bad breath and gum infection. The mouth needs plenty of saliva to wash away acids and bacteria from the denture and around the gums.
If you suffer from dry mouth, make sure you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day and be extra vigilant about your hygiene practices. Talk to your doctor about alternative medications if it’s caused by a prescription.
#4: Dentures Are Porous
While dentures are made from artificial materials, they are still porous — and that means bacteria can collect in these microscopic cracks and crevices. What’s more, studies have shown that older patients naturally have more bacteria in their mouths than younger people. That’s why overnight soaking and regular hygiene are important for denture wearers.
#5: Dentures Need to Be Replaced
Even with proper care and maintenance, you’ll need to have your denture replaced or refitted approximately every five to seven years. Notify your dentist as soon as possible if your prosthetic starts to become loose or uncomfortable. Ill-fitting dentures can cause a host of issues for oral and overall health.
About the Author
Dr. James P. Kostas graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He’s been providing excellent restorative solutions for Burlington patients for almost 30 years. Are you searching for a “dentist near me?” We invite you to contact Complete Dental Care at (781) 272-0441.
