Modern developments in dental care provide solutions for people with missing and damaged teeth. Dentures are a common procedure for restoring a person's smile, and many dentists provide this highly sought-after service. If you have a pair of dentures, you should know the do's and don'ts of proper care to ensure your artificial teeth retain their excellent condition long-term.

Do:

Schedule routine dentistry visits.

The best way to ensure your dentures are in good condition is by scheduling regular trips to the dentist. Attending appointments twice a year is a great opportunity for your dentist to evaluate the state of your dentures and to inform you if they detect any premature damage. They can also do thorough cleanings of your mouth to eliminate bacteria and plaque buildup that can damage your remaining natural teeth.

Clean them daily.

Your artificial teeth need daily care. You should brush them at least twice a day, in the morning and night, to keep them clean and safe to use. You can brush them while they're in your mouth or when they are removed, depending on your personal preference. This eliminates bacteria buildup and helps keep your natural teeth and gums healthy.

Don't:

Let them dry.

Your dentures should be kept moist at all times. Your mouth will naturally do this job. However, when they are not in your mouth, you should have them soaking in a designated receptacle. It's important that your dentures are kept wet because when this implant dries out, it becomes brittle and fragile. The more fragile it is, the more prone it is to breaking, which can lead to a tedious replacement.

Wear them to bed.

Dentures are made for use during waking hours. Wearing them to bed is unadvisable since this puts unnecessary pressure on your gums and other teeth. This can lead to soreness and even cause permanent damage to your mouth by causing misalignment in your natural teeth.

If you need assistance with your dentures, visit Ronald L. Rasmussen, DDS, a family dentist in Sacramento, CA. This professional provides dental care to patients of all ages and specializes in preventative and restorative dentistry. Call (916) 689-1100 to schedule an appointment, or visit his website to learn more about his denture services.