If you have dentures, your denturist has definitely spoken to you about the importance of properly maintaining your appliance. Correctly caring for your dentures includes brushing and soaking them daily and bringing your dentures back to your Surrey denturist for regular annual cleaning, just like you would for your natural teeth.
But for many people, taking care of their oral health after having teeth extracted just doesn’t seem as important as it once did. It’s easy to start forgetting about regular denture cleaning. However, denture cleaning is crucial to your oral health, and good oral health is very closely tied to your overall health – neglecting one could have serious consequences for the other.
To keep your body healthy and your smile sparkling, here are four denture cleaning tips that should become part of your daily denture care routine.
Soak and Rinse Your Dentures Everyday
Your dentures in Surrey are not meant to be worn 24 hours a day. To clean your dentures and give your gums a rest, it is recommended that you remove them for a few hours each day. Most patients choose to do so overnight while they sleep.
Using either a store-bought denture soak or your own solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, leave your dentures to soak for at 30 minutes, but preferably overnight, thoroughly rinsing them before wearing again.
Brush at Least Once Daily
There is no getting away from it; brushing is just as important now as before you got dentures. Using a soft bristle brush, give your dentures a gentle scrub to remove any bacteria-causing food particles. Don’t use traditional toothpaste on dentures. If your dentures are stained, try a baking soda paste, soaking in hydrogen peroxide and water solution, or commercially available denture bleach.
Also Read: Great Tips for Being Able to Live with Your Dentures
For really stubborn stains, your can bring your dentures to your Surrey denturist for a professional cleaning. They have non-commercially available tools that can get out most stains, including coffee, tea, and red wine.
Once your dentures are clean, don’t forget about any remaining natural teeth or your gums. Using a fluoride toothpaste and soft bristle brush, give your entire mouth a once-over to remove any loose particles and stimulate the gums.
Gums are highly susceptible to bacteria and infection; keeping them and your dentures clean is critical to your oral health.
Handle Your Dentures with Care
Far too many accidents happen while cleaning dentures in Surrey. When cleaning, always be mindful of not dropping your denture. Some people choose to place a soft towel down over the area where they are cleaning; others fill the sink with water.
It’s also essential to refrain from using hot water when cleaning or soaking your dentures as warmer water can warp your denture. Instead, keep the water lukewarm or at room temperature.
If you are going to remove your dentures for an extended period of time and not clean them, be sure to keep them in a moist environment to avoid having them dry out.
Schedule an Annual Denture Cleaning with Your Surrey Denturist
Regular dental appointments are still very beneficial, even if you no longer have any natural teeth. During these appointments, your denturist will examine your denture for signs of wear. However, they will also examine your mouth to make sure there are no sores, which could indicate a fit issue or warnings signs of infection.
Dentures are a significant investment, both financially and to your overall wellbeing. Don’t shorten their life expectancy by neglecting to care for them properly. With a good daily cleaning routine and regular visits to your denturist, your dentures will last you a very, very, long time.
