Dentures may not be susceptible to cavities the way natural teeth are, but wearing them doesn’t mean that you’ve got a full time oral SWAT team that makes your mouth invincible to bacteria.
Dentures may develop bad odor from absorption of fluid or bacteria. Their color may also change due to aging or a reaction to fluids in the mouth.
Denture Do’s
- Use a soft bristle toothbrush to remove food deposits, stains and plaque.
- Rinse your dentures before brushing to remove any loose food or debris.
- Don’t get your denture scratched. Use a non-abrasive cleanser to gently brush all the surfaces of the dentures.
- Reduce the chances of oral irritation and bad breath. When brushing, clean your mouth thoroughly. That includes your gums, cheeks, roof of your mouth and tongue.
- Put your dentures in a safe place when you’re not wearing them and cover them in water to keep them from warping.
- Use dental adhesives in an emergency or to keep dentures stable until your next appointment is booked for proper fit.
Denture Don’ts
- Do not use ordinary toothpaste, bleach, vinegar or soap unless directed by your dentist.
- Don’t wear dental adhesives on a regular basis. Prolonged use of denture creams, strips or powders can mask infections and cause bone loss in the jaw.
- Don’t try to repair your own dentures yourself.
- Never use hot water for rinsing – it can warp your dentures.
If you have any questions about your dentures, or if they stop fitting well or become loose or damaged, contact your dentist right away.
