If you have one or more teeth that are missing or must be removed, you will want new teeth to fill in the gaps. If you do not want to have dental surgery (which is required for dental implants), or if your jawbone isn’t strong and healthy enough for implants, your dentist may recommend that you have dentures.
Made of acrylic and metal components, dentures are artificial teeth that function like regular teeth. They allow you to eat like normal and to smile confidently – no one has to know except you and your dentist.
Dentures are removable and, like your natural teeth, they need to be cleaned regularly. Let’s talk about how you can clean your dentures to keep them lasting for years, and where you can go for an evaluation and treatment of your teeth.
Clean Them Regularly
Even though they’re synthetic, dentures are not immune to plaque and tartar developing on them. This is because they are in your mouth while you eat, so bacteria can grow and fester. Plus, plaque tends to adhere even more easily to rough denture surfaces than to softer oral tissues, so it’s advised to rinse them with water after every meal.
You will also want to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the surfaces of your dentures. Don’t use your regular toothpaste, which is generally too abrasive – instead, use a denture cleanser your dentist recommends.
Soak Your Dentures Overnight Every Night
Dentures need moisture to retain their shape. Before going to bed every night, remove and soak them in a glass filled with water.
It is a good idea to put a denture cleanser such as Efferdent or Polident in the water for maximum cleansing. Be sure to rinse the dentures with water before placing them back in your mouth in the morning, because the cleanser is made with strong chemicals which aren’t meant to be ingested.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly for Denture and Dental Care
Be sure to see your dentist on the schedule they recommend, because the dentist will want to always check the fit and integrity of your dentures. They may also clean the dentures thoroughly with a professional dental solution. If the dentures need any adjustments to fit your teeth properly, the dentist can take care of that during your visit.
Denture Care in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
Keeping your dentures clean and strong requires regular daily maintenance, just like you do when maintaining your natural teeth. If you are interested in dentures, cosmetic dentistry, or you are looking for a dentist in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, schedule a consultation with Dr. Steven Hagerman.
Dr. Hagerman is an expert in a wide range of dental procedures, including dentures, teeth whitening, dental implants, and porcelain veneers. He can show you how to clean your dentures in such a way as to make them last for many years.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hagerman, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (651) 646-2392 or by filling out our online form. We look forward to being your dentist for a lifetime of excellent oral health!