Whenever a person enters a new stage in their life or a new event or change happens, it's normal for there to be some confusion or questions. Denture care is no different, especially when a person has grown used to caring for their regular adult teeth. While a dentist can provide answers to all of those questions, here's a quick list to clear up any confusion. 

Should I Brush My Dentures Like Teeth? 

While dentures will act the same as teeth for smiling and other daily activities, denture care requires specific steps, especially when it comes to brushing and cleaning. Regular toothpaste contains a formula that is meant for adult teeth that have strong enamel.

Dentures are made of plastic that might be harmed, stained, or otherwise compromised by those kinds of toothpastes. Instead, proper denture care involves using dish soap and a dentist-recommended brush to clean your set after meals. 

Can I Sleep With My Dentures On? 

Wearing dentures all day can put some added pressure on the jaw, gums, and supporting face muscles. While it's not detrimental to sleep with dentures occasionally, it's recommended to take your set out each night to rest the mouth and engage in proper denture care. 

After a long day of eating and talking, bacteria can build up on the dentures, so it's best to soak them in a water-soluble solution overnight to keep them fresh and clean for the following day. This practice will also safeguard your gums from too much exposure to bacteria. 

What Food and Drink Should I Stay Away From?

When eating and drinking are considered, denture care doesn't segue much from regular dental suggestions. Sticky foods, such as gum and candy, are bound to get stuck on your dentures and make them loose. Popcorn, seeds, and other small foods should be eaten with caution as well since they might get stuck between or beneath the dentures.

When you're getting used to a new way of life, it's important to take proper denture care into consideration. Located in Columbia Falls, MT, the team at Flathead Denture can repair, adjust, or reline oral prosthetics for optimal comfort and appearance. Along with their extensive knowledge and skill, they also go above and beyond to create a relaxed and soothing office environment for all patients. Visit the website for a complete list of services, or call (406) 892-0700 to schedule an appointment.