Your Step-by-Step Root Canal Guide
If you need to have a root canal, but you’re feeling a little nervous, understanding exactly how the procedure works may help. In this post, we offer a step-by-step look at what happens during a root canal.
5 Tips to Keep Your Dentures Clean
Just as plaque builds up on natural teeth, it builds up on dentures. And, even with dentures, you’re at risk of developing gum disease when plaque is present. Plus, it can cause bad breath.
If you have dentures, Dr. Stephen Hiroshige wants you to enjoy them to the fullest while maintaining your oral health. We’ve put together these tips to help you know how to best clean your dentures, regardless of the kind of dentures you have and whether you have a partial or full set.
Quick facts about dentures
Before we get to how you should keep your dentures clean, we should talk about how dentures work. Dentures are the oldest way of replacing missing teeth—though modern dentures are much different than those found at archeological sites!
Numerous types of dentures are available, including:
- Full-arch conventional dentures
- Partial dentures, which replace a few missing teeth
- Overdentures that fit over any existing natural teeth you may have
- Implant-supported dentures that work with surgically placed implants
- Immediate dentures, which are created from an impression immediately before your natural teeth are extracted
No matter what type of dentures you have, keeping them clean will extend their life and improve your oral health. Dr. Hiroshige can discuss the various types with you and help you decide if you don’t yet have dentures.
1. Brushing
You still need to brush when you have dentures—both your mouth and your dentures. For your mouth, remove your dentures and use a soft-bristled brush to clean any remaining teeth you have, as well as your gums and tongue. You may use a piece of gauze for your gums if it’s more comfortable.
You need to brush your dentures, too. Use a denture-cleaning solution or warm water and mild soap, but don’t use toothpaste. Toothpaste is too gritty and may damage your dentures.
Brush all parts of your dentures, then rinse them with water.
2. Soaking
Your dentures need to stay moist to retain their shape so they don’t become brittle. Most people choose to soak their dentures overnight while they are sleeping.
Check with Dr. Hiroshige because the manufacturers’ guidelines offer different recommendations for different products. Most often, it’s fine to use a soaking solution or water.
3. Rinsing
Before you place your dentures back in your mouth in the morning, be sure to rinse away the soaking solution if you used it. Some such solutions can be harmful if you swallow them.
You should also clean your mouth again before replacing your dentures.
4. Fit
Pay attention to how your dentures fit. If you notice any slipping or you have sore places on your gums, be sure to schedule an appointment and discuss it with Dr. Hiroshige.
5. Checkups
Continue to schedule regular checkups. Some screenings are recommended at regular intervals, and during your appointments, your dentures can be professionally cleaned.
If you have questions about how to best care for your dentures, schedule an appointment. We’re happy to discuss how you can keep your dentures clean and your mouth healthy!
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