5 Habits to Avoid with Dentures

Dentures are one of the most popular ways to replace missing teeth, they can be used to replace several or an entire mouth full of pearly whites. Dentures are durable, with full dentures lasting an average of five to 10 years and partials lasting five to 15 years. Even so, there are still some things that can lead to issues with your restorations or overall oral health. Continue reading to learn about five things that you should avoid if you have dentures.

#1: Neglecting Your Oral Hygiene

Although you have had your lost teeth replaced, you still need to take care of your new smile! One of the most common mistakes people make while wearing dentures is not brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. These important habits will prevent plaque and tartar from building up, making them dirty and unpleasant to wear.

Most dentists recommend brushing your dentures at least twice per day, especially after eating a meal. Just remember that some toothpaste is abrasive, which can damage your restorations. Be sure to use the right products to prevent scratches on the acrylic of your dentures.

#2: Not Wearing Them Regularly

If you don’t wear your dentures consistently, they might dry out or become disfigured or otherwise compromised. Additionally, if your dentures are new, be sure to wear them often to help your mouth get accustomed to them quicker.

Though dentures should be worn regularly, you should still take them out before you go to bed. This will give your mouth a break and allow you to soak them in a clean glass of water or denture solution overnight to eliminate bacteria.

#3: Not Cleaning Them Often or Properly

Dentures should be cleaned daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Don’t use hot water, as this may warp your restorations. Brush your dentures gently, especially the surfaces that come into contact with your gums.

#4: Trying to Repair Them Yourself

Although it might seem like a good idea to fix minor breaks or make small adjustments to your dentures yourself, it is always best to see your dentist if there is a problem. Dentures are complex devices, and even a small mistake can cause problems. Your dentist has the skills and tools needed to fix problems quickly, correctly, and safely.

#5: Skipping Dental Checkups

Maintaining routine preventive care, such as seeing your dentist for regular check-ups, is essential for people with dentures. Even if you don’t have any remaining teeth, your dentist can monitor the condition of your oral health and your dentures. They can also identify any potential problems early on. This will help ensure that if any problems that do arise, they are treated quickly and effectively before they get worse.

About the Practice

Dr. Christopher Duong, Dr. John Kuan, and Dr. Khoa Pham are experienced Fort Worth dentists who lead the team at Renaissance Dental. They offer a wide range of dental services to keep your smile looking its best. If you’re missing several or all of your pearly whites, they can also discuss dentures to fill in the gaps. They can also give you advice on how to properly care for your restorations and what bad habits should be avoided. To schedule an appointment or for more information about dentures, call Renaissance Dental at (817) 289-5200 or visit their website.