Caring for Your Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures often consist of replacement teeth that are attached to gum-colored or pink plastic bases. Based on your needs, your dentist will design a partial denture that suits you. If you are thinking about getting partial dentures, you should know how to look after them. Handling partial dentures requires proper care.

Denture care

Proper denture care is beneficial for both the health of the mouth and dentures. Partial dentures need proper maintenance. This will keep them clean, stain-free and looking good. Here are some tips on cleaning and handling that will help.

Brushing and rinsing

A person should brush the denture every day to remove plaque and food deposits. Brushing occasionally also helps prevent the development of permanent stains on them. It is advisable for a patient to use a brush with soft bristles which is designed for cleaning them. A brush with hard bristles can wear down or damage the dentures. In between brushing, dentures should be rinsed after every meal.

Denture cleansers

Mild dishwashing liquid or hand soap can be used to clean dentures. However, many kinds of toothpaste and household cleaners may be too abrasive for them so they should not be used. Using bleach is also not ideal because this may end up whitening the pink portion of the denture. Patients can benefit from choosing denture cleansers with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance.

Handling dentures

People should be careful when cleaning the dentures. It is always a good idea to take precautions when handling them. This may involve standing over a sink of water or a folded towel just in case a person accidentally drops them. A person should also be careful not to bend or damage the clasps or plastic when cleaning them.

Soak dentures overnight

A denture can dry out or lose its shape if it is not kept moist. When they are not worn especially at night, dentures should be placed in water or a soaking solution. However, if the partial denture has metal attachments, these attachments could tarnish if it is placed in a soaking solution. Dentures should not be placed in hot water because it can cause them to warp. A dentist can recommend appropriate methods for caring for a specific denture.

Regular dental checkups

Scheduling occasional dental checkups is important. A dentist can recommend how often a patient should have the dentures examined and professionally cleaned. The dentist can help ensure a proper fit to prevent discomfort and slippage. A dentist can also check inside the mouth of a patient to make sure it is healthy. If the dentures become loose, a patient should see a dentist promptly. Loose dentures can cause infection, sores and irritation.

Contact your dentist

Dentures will help improve your appearance and smile. However, you should know how to take good care of dentures. It is important for you to handle them with care and to clean them regularly using the right products. Partial dentures should also be kept moist. You will benefit from visiting your dentist occasionally. If you want to learn more about dentures, schedule an appointment with your dentist.

Are you considering getting dentures in the Benicia area? Get more information at https://beniciadentist.com.

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