Dentures are a wonderful solution if you have lost your teeth and want to feel confident about your smile again. However, whether you have a full set or partials, it's important to take care of them to keep them in good condition and prevent oral health complications. Here are a few ways you can preserve them and keep your mouth happy. 

How to Care for Your Dentures

1. Clean Them Daily

Just like natural teeth, this dental appliance needs to be cleaned daily to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. Use a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner or mild soap and warm water to gently scrub them. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes that could damage the set. It’s also helpful to place them in a denture-soaking solution overnight for optimum sanitization. 

2. Handle Them Carefully

Dentures are delicate and can easily break or become damaged if mishandled. When you clean them, do so over a soft towel or sink filled with water to prevent them from breaking if they fall. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the dental appliance.

3. Avoid Certain Foods

Some foods can be tough or sticky and may damage or dislodge your dentures. Stay away from hard candy, popcorn, nuts, and sticky foods like caramel or taffy. Cut up your food into small pieces and chew on both sides of your mouth to prevent them from tipping or shifting. 

4. Maintain Healthy Dental Habits 

Even if you have dentures, it's important to continue practicing good dental care habits to keep your mouth healthy. Brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft-bristled brush to remove bacteria and stimulate circulation. Rinse your mouth with mouthwash or warm salt water to freshen your breath and kill bacteria. 

5. Get Routine Checkups

Regular dental checkups are crucial for maintaining healthy gums and preventing oral health problems. Your dentist can check your dentures for proper fit and make any necessary adjustments. They can also clean your dental appliance professionally to remove stubborn stains and bacteria.

Taking care of your dentures protects your smile and oral health. If you're in the Fairfield, OH, area and need dental care, turn to Craig A Spletzer, DDS. For more than three decades, the office has been providing comprehensive dental services to patients using state-of-the-art equipment and methods. Call them at (513) 860-1133 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about their services.