Dentures are worn by people of all ages, and regardless of how long you have had yours, proper daily care can make a significant difference in how they look, feel and function.
While you may hear stories about people wearing the same dentures for 20, 30 or even 50 years, that doesn’t necessarily mean those dentures are still fitting or functioning properly. In general, dentures should be professionally assessed regularly, and many will need to be relined, adjusted or replaced as changes occur in the mouth.
The lifespan of a denture varies from person to person and depends on factors such as changes to the gums and jawbone, wear of the denture teeth, changes in your bite and how well the dentures have been cared for.
Following a few simple denture-care habits can help keep your dentures clean, comfortable and in good condition.
Clean Your Dentures Every Day
Just like natural teeth, dentures accumulate plaque, bacteria and food debris throughout the day. They should be cleaned thoroughly every day, even if they don’t appear dirty.
Remove your dentures and brush all surfaces using a denture brush or soft-bristled toothbrush along with a cleaner specifically intended for dentures.
Avoid using regular toothpaste. Most toothpastes are designed for natural enamel and can be abrasive enough to create microscopic scratches in denture materials. These scratches can make it easier for plaque and stains to accumulate over time.
You should also avoid household cleaners, bleach and other products that are not specifically recommended for dentures. Some products can damage the denture base, change its colour or affect metal components found in partial dentures.
Handle Your Dentures Carefully
Dentures are durable, but they can still fracture if dropped onto a hard floor or counter top.
When cleaning or handling your dentures, placing a folded towel on the counter or filling the sink with water can provide some protection if they accidentally slip from your hands.
Take particular care around clasps and other metal components on partial dentures. Bending or adjusting these components yourself can affect how the denture fits and may damage the framework.
Remove Your Dentures at Night
In most cases, dentures should be removed while sleeping. The tissues underneath a denture benefit from having time each day without the denture covering them.
After removing your dentures, clean them thoroughly and store them according to the instructions provided by your denturist. Conventional acrylic dentures are generally kept moist when they are out of the mouth to prevent the material from drying out.
Avoid very hot or boiling water, as excessive heat can distort denture materials and affect the fit.
If you use a soaking solution, make sure it is appropriate for your type of denture. Some denture cleansers are not recommended for dentures containing metal components.
Remove and Insert Your Dentures Gently
Dentures should be inserted and removed using gentle, controlled pressure. Avoid biting a denture into position or forcing it if it does not seat easily.
When removing a denture, gently break the seal and work it loose rather than pulling forcefully on one area. Partial dentures should also be removed carefully so that unnecessary pressure is not placed on the clasps or remaining natural teeth.
If your denture suddenly becomes difficult to insert or remove, don’t force it. Changes in your mouth, a damaged clasp or another problem may need to be examined by your denturist.
Clean Your Mouth Too
Denture care isn’t only about cleaning the denture.
After removing your dentures, gently clean your gums, tongue and the roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush or damp cloth. If you have remaining natural teeth, they should continue to be brushed and flossed normally.
Keeping the tissues and remaining teeth clean helps reduce plaque and bacteria and allows you to check for irritation, sore spots or other changes inside the mouth.
Have Your Dentures Checked Regularly
Even a denture that still looks good can gradually become loose or worn as the mouth changes underneath it.
Over time, the bone and gum tissue that support a denture naturally change. Denture teeth can also wear, which can alter your bite and affect chewing.
Regular denture examinations allow your denturist to check:
- The fit and stability of your dentures
- The condition and wear of the denture teeth
- Your bite
- The health of the tissues underneath the denture
- The condition of any remaining natural teeth
- Whether an adjustment, reline or replacement should be considered
If your dentures have become loose, uncomfortable, difficult to chew with or noticeably worn, you don’t necessarily have to wait until they reach a certain age before having them assessed.
Proper Care Helps You Get More From Your Dentures
Dentures are an important part of your oral health and your ability to eat, speak and smile comfortably. A few minutes of proper care each day can help keep them clean and functioning properly while reducing the risk of unnecessary damage.
If you have questions about caring for your dentures or you’re unsure whether your current dentures still fit as well as they should, schedule a free consultation with Parisien Denture Clinic. We can assess your dentures and let you know whether an adjustment, reline or replacement may be appropriate.
