Health

11 Tips to Wear and Care for Your Dentures

Care o Dentures

Over 50% of Australians over the age of 65 wear false teeth. Anyone who has dentures will know they need to be cared for properly. This might seem to be a nuisance, but it is necessary, and once you form the habit of doing it, it will simply become part of your evening routine. Here are some tips for looking after your dentures.

  • If you are new to wearing dentures, ensure you get proper instructions from your dentist not only in caring for them but in how to insert and remove them properly, since this varies according to the type of dentures you have.
  • Take time to get used to your new teeth. It is something of a learning curve, and taking it slow will help prevent damage to your mouth as well as your false teeth.
  • Daily cleaning with a soft brush and special denture paste is essential, but sometimes they still get stained. If so, soak them in a vinegar solution for a few hours. If that doesn’t work, take them to the dentist.
  • They should always be taken out of your mouth at night so your jaw can rest, and saliva can bathe your gums and the roof of your mouth for the best oral health. Plus, it helps to protect your dentures from damage if you grind them while asleep.
  • You should also brush and clean your gums and mouth gently.
  • Dentures tend to be smooth and slippery, so fill the sink with water and hold them over it while cleaning them. If they slip out of your grasp, they are less likely to be damaged.
  • As you age, your mouth changes, which can affect the fit and comfort of dentures. For this reason, it is wise to have a check-up if you feel discomfort. False teeth can often be relined rather than replaced to make them more comfortable.
  • Even if they still feel okay, having a check-up regularly can catch any problems so your mouth doesn’t get sore. If you have dropped the false teeth, have them checked in case it altered their shape.
  • Don’t attempt to adjust dentures yourself. It can do more harm than good, and you may end up with a sore mouth, cuts or ulcers that can take ages to heal.
  • Don’t suffer ill-fitting false teeth when a little attention could make the problem disappear.
  • Wear the false teeth every day. Leaving them out of your mouth for extended periods will change the shape of your mouth, so they never fit well. Persevere and get help from your dentist for any problems you may have. Then you’ll always have an attractive smile.