5 Things Every Person with Dentures Needs To Know

We are told about the importance of good oral hygiene to keep our mouth and teeth healthy and breath fresh from childhood. However, even with the best care, losing teeth due to old age, dental disease, or accidents is common. When that happens, dentures are the popular option. These can be either partial to fill in the gap caused by missing teeth or, if all the teeth are gone, a full set to allow you to eat, drink, smile and talk freely and with confidence. There is a common misconception that because dentures are artificial they are simply "fit and forget" cosmetic enhancements. This is not so. To be able to derive the maximum benefits from your dentures, you need to understand how to care for them.

• Dental Hygiene Is Still Crucial to Oral Health

  Even though they are not natural teeth, dentures still need to be cleaned regularly to keep them looking good and avoid oral health problems. Dentures should be cleaned as per the advice of a dentist, using a special toothbrush. Using a regular toothbrush and toothpaste will not clean them properly and may even cause damage. Dentures get stained easily and if not cleaned regularly and properly, will lose their sheen and sparkle.

• Denture Should Be Removed When Possible

  You should remove your dentures when you alone are or when you do not need to wear them. Prolonged wearing can place needless pressure on the gum, which could lead to a receding gum condition. If dentures remain in place for too long, they can also cause bad breath. Taking them out will allow your gums to relax. It would help if you cleaned your gums and tongue with a soft-bristled brush. Before going to sleep, place your dentures in a glass of clean, fresh water to keep them well lubricated.

---

Also Read: Gum Disease and Systemic Health


---

• Dentures Take a Little Getting Used To

  When you put on dentures, you are placing something artificial in your mouth. This will feel strange at first, and there could be a possibility of mouth sores developing at first. You may also salivate more than normal for the first few days. However, your dentist will tell you how to minimize the initial discomfort and avoid sores. Your dentures will soon feel natural and comfortable in your mouth.

• Practice Makes Perfect

  The reason for wearing dentures is to enable you to talk, smile, and eat naturally. However, this is not an automatic process. It may take a few days to get used to the feeling of the dentures, and here too your dentist will tell you how to minimize the break-in period.

• Denture Needs Maintenance

  Once you get used to your dentures, wearing them will be second nature, and you will forget that they are there. Because of the wear they are subjected to in daily life, dentures need regular maintenance and, at times, repairs and adjustment. Your dentist will tell you how to maintain them. If repairs are needed, go back to your dentist to be sure of having the repairs done correctly.

Having comfortable and natural-looking dentures will give you the confidence to smile and, by doing that, enjoy life to the fullest. To be sure of getting the dentures that are right for you, follow the advice of your dentist - she is the expert who will be able to fit you with the perfect set. She will also be able to give you advice, tailored to your lifestyle, on how to maintain and care for your dentures. Suppose you have dentures that do not fit properly or cause discomfort. In that case, you must visit a dentist without delay to find out the problem, have corrective measures taken and, if required, get a fresh set that will eliminate the problems you are facing.