Although dentures are prosthetic devices, they require as much care as natural teeth. Good dental hygiene will help your investment last longer and prevent oral concerns like gum irritation, bad breath, and inflammation. Conversely, bad habits will damage the devices, so you should steer clear of the actions below.

What Practices Can Damage Dentures?

1. Sleeping in Dentures

Even when tired, you must take out dentures before going to sleep. Otherwise, the prosthetics will block saliva flow, leading to a yeast infection known as oral thrush. This condition causes white spots on the gums, inner cheeks, or tongue, which can be painful when touched. Wearing dentures at all times also places a lot of pressure on the gums, inflaming the soft tissues.

When removing the prosthetics, clean them with a soft-bristle brush and a nonabrasive cleanser designed for dentures. These measures will eliminate bacteria-causing food particles that affect your oral health. Soaking the devices in water or a cleanser overnight will also remove lingering microbes. 

2. Nail Biting

Nail biting is a habit that often develops during adolescence. Stress, anxiety, and the need to concentrate can trigger the behavior. Unfortunately, biting down can chip or crack the dentures' porcelain or acrylic resin material. 

The damage could affect your bite, causing pain or discomfort when chewing and speaking. To break the habit, keep your nails short using a clipper to reduce the temptation. Identifying any triggers, such as boredom or stress, will help you plan to avoid the situations that lead to nail biting.

3. Chewing Gum

Even if some chewing gums claim to be safe for dentures, you should avoid these products. These sticky substances are difficult to remove from the crevices and often stain the devices. They can also stick between upper and lower dentures when you talk, which could dislodge the prosthetics. If you want to address bad breath quickly or crave a sweet treat, stick to sugar-free soft mints instead.

For high-quality dentures, visit Arrow Dental Care in Ellisville and Saint Peters, MO. For over 10 years, their dentists have provided various dental care services to improve the oral health of their patients. From dental implants and denture fittings to teeth cleaning and whitening treatments, they'll use the latest techniques to ensure the best results. Learn more about their services online, and call (636) 220-7770 for an appointment.