Today, we’re diving into an essential topic for many of our patients: how to properly care for your dentures. At Solutions Dental Clinic, we believe that great dental care doesn’t stop when you leave our office. Whether you’re new to dentures or have been wearing them for years, this guide will help you keep your dentures – and your smile – in top condition.
Before we jump into the how-to’s, let’s talk about why denture care is so crucial:
1. Longevity: Well-maintained dentures can last many years, saving you time and money.
2. Comfort: Clean dentures fit better and are more comfortable to wear.
3. Oral Health: Proper care prevents issues like gum irritation and oral infections.
4. Appearance: Regular cleaning keeps your dentures looking their best.
5. Odour Prevention: Good hygiene practices prevent bad breath associated with poorly maintained dentures.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to keeping your dentures in great shape:
– Remove and rinse your dentures after every meal.
– Run water over your dentures to remove food debris and loose particles.
– When cleaning your dentures, fill the sink with water or place a folded towel in it. This provides a soft landing if you accidentally drop them.
– Never use hot water to clean or rinse your dentures – it can warp their shape.
– Brush your dentures at least once a day with a soft-bristled brush.
– Use a non-abrasive denture cleaner (not toothpaste, which can be too harsh).
– Clean all surfaces of the dentures, including the surface that attaches to your gums.
– Most types of dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape.
– Soak your dentures overnight in room-temperature water or a mild denture-soaking solution.
– Always rinse dentures before putting them back in your mouth, especially if using a denture-soaking solution.
– Use a soft toothbrush to clean your natural teeth, tongue, cheeks, and the roof of your mouth before inserting your dentures.
– This stimulates circulation in your tissues and helps remove plaque.
While daily cleaning is crucial, your dentures also need occasional deep cleaning:
1. Ultrasonic Cleaning: Consider purchasing an ultrasonic cleaner for a thorough, deep clean.
2. Professional Cleaning: Visit us at Solutions Dental Clinic for professional denture cleaning. We recommend this at least twice a year.
Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do:
1. Avoid Abrasive Cleaning Materials: Don’t use harsh toothpaste, strong cleansers, or hard-bristled brushes.
2. Skip the Whitening Toothpastes: These are too abrasive for dentures and can cause damage.
3. Never Use Bleach: Bleach can weaken dentures and change their colour.
4. Avoid Hot Water: Hot or boiling water can warp your dentures.
5. Don’t Let Them Dry Out: Dentures can lose their shape if they’re not kept moist.
Keep an eye out for these signs that your dentures might need adjustment or replacement:
– Looseness or slipping
– Clicking noises when you talk or eat
– Odours
– Stains
– Chips or cracks
– Discomfort
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to book an appointment with us at Solutions Dental Clinic.
Your diet can affect your dentures and overall oral health:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dry mouth, which can affect denture comfort.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet: A nutritious diet supports gum health and overall oral hygiene.
3. Be Cautious with Sticky Foods: Very sticky or hard foods can dislodge or damage dentures.
4. Cut Food into Smaller Pieces: This makes eating easier and puts less stress on your dentures.
If you’re new to dentures, remember that it takes time to adjust:
1. Start with Soft Foods: Gradually introduce harder foods as you get used to your dentures.
2. Practice Speaking: Read aloud to get used to talking with your new dentures.
3. Be Patient: It’s normal for dentures to feel strange at first. Give yourself time to adapt.
4. Regular Check-ups: Visit us regularly so we can ensure your dentures continue to fit well.
At Solutions Dental Clinic, we’re committed to helping our Winchester patients get the most out of their dentures:
1. Personalised Care: Our denture expert, Lee Butler, provides tailored advice for each patient’s unique needs.
2. Regular Check-ups: We recommend six-monthly check-ups to ensure your dentures are in good condition and fitting well.
3. Adjustments and Repairs: We offer professional denture adjustments and repairs to keep your dentures in top shape.
4. Patient Education: We’re always happy to demonstrate proper cleaning techniques and answer any questions you might have.
Here’s what some of our patients say about caring for their dentures:
“I was nervous about caring for my new dentures, but the team at Solutions Dental Clinic gave me all the information I needed. Now, it’s just part of my daily routine.” – Margaret S.
“I’ve found that using an ultrasonic cleaner makes a big difference in keeping my dentures fresh. It was a great tip from Lee!” – Robert T.
Whether you’re new to dentures or looking to up your denture care game, we’re here to help. At Solutions Dental Clinic, we’re passionate about helping our Winchester patients maintain healthy smiles and comfortable dentures.
Why not book a denture check-up? Give us a call on 01962 864 655 to schedule an appointment. We can assess your dentures, provide a professional clean, and offer personalised advice on care and maintenance.
Remember, great denture care leads to a great smile. Here’s to keeping Winchester smiling brightly!
Just a quick note to say a huge thank you for all your great work, I really never thought I could have a smile like the one you have given me, unless of course I spent a lot more money than I have.
Having reached the end of my major implant treatment I must compliment you both, and your staff, on the excellent standards of patient care that you have provided.
Thank you for my new dentures, made and fitted with a minimum of appointments,
excellent service and attention, highly recommended, money and time well spent.
Firstly thank you so very much for my new dentures which will completely transform my life going forward. Having completely given up on dentist after many a bad experience it came to the point where I needed to find a solution as my teeth became loose and we're falling out, this coupled with being very very nervous led me on my search.
