Mistakes to Avoid for Healthy, Long-Lasting Dentures
Dentures are an excellent way to restore your smile and improve your oral health after tooth loss. However, keeping them clean and well-maintained is essential to ensuring they remain comfortable, functional, and long-lasting. Unfortunately, many patients unknowingly make mistakes when cleaning their dentures, leading to damage, discomfort, or even oral health problems.
At Newark Dental Associates, Dr. Brian Stickel, a trusted dentist in Newark, OH, is dedicated to helping patients in Newark, Heath, Granville, Johnstown, and Pataskala, OH, care for their dentures properly. Dr. Stickel will discuss the top cleaning mistakes to avoid so you can keep your dentures in great shape for years. Call our Newark dental office at (740) 344-4000 to schedule your consultation.
1. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
Not all cleaning products are safe for dentures. One of the most common mistakes is using regular toothpaste, which is often too abrasive and can cause tiny scratches on the surface of your dentures. These scratches not only dull the appearance of your dentures but also provide spaces where bacteria can hide.
Similarly, using bleach or household cleaners can weaken the material and cause discoloration. To avoid these issues, always use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for dentures. If you’re unsure which products are safe, Dr. Stickel and the dental team at Newark Dental Associates can recommend the best options for you.
2. Not Cleaning Dentures Daily
Just like natural teeth, dentures need daily cleaning to remove plaque, food particles, and stains. Neglecting to clean your dentures daily can lead to unpleasant odors, unsightly discoloration, and even oral health issues like stomatitis or gum irritation.
To maintain good oral hygiene, take a few minutes each day to clean your dentures thoroughly. Remember, a clean denture not only looks better but also feels more comfortable to wear.
3. Skipping a Soaking Routine
Dentures need to stay moist to maintain their shape and fit properly. A common mistake patients make is leaving their dentures out to dry overnight. When dentures dry out, they can warp or lose their shape, causing discomfort and difficulty when wearing them.
Always soak your dentures in water or a dentist-recommended denture cleaning solution when you’re not wearing them. At Newark Dental Associates, we can provide advice on the best soaking products to use based on your specific denture material.
4. Using Hot Water to Clean Dentures
It might seem like a good idea to use hot water to sanitize your dentures, but doing so can actually warp or distort their shape. Dentures are made from materials that are sensitive to high temperatures, and even a small change in their fit can lead to discomfort.
Stick to lukewarm or cool water for rinsing and cleaning your dentures. If you’re unsure about proper cleaning methods, call our dental office at (740) 344-4000 for denture care tips.
5. Failing to Brush Dentures Properly
While soaking is important, it’s not enough to remove all the debris from your dentures. Brushing your dentures is essential, but it’s important to do so carefully. Many patients make the mistake of scrubbing too hard or using a stiff-bristled toothbrush, which can damage the surface of the dentures.
Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush or one specifically designed for dentures. Gently brush all surfaces to remove plaque and food particles. For best results, consult Dr. Brian Stickel, your trusted Newark dentist, for tips on the right brushing techniques.
6. Ignoring the Rest of Your Mouth
Even with dentures, maintaining good oral hygiene is vital. Some patients focus solely on cleaning their dentures and forget to care for their gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth.
Neglecting the rest of your mouth can lead to bacterial buildup, bad breath, and other oral health problems. Make it a habit to gently brush your gums, tongue, and any natural teeth twice a day to keep your mouth healthy.
7. Avoiding Regular Dental Checkups
Denture care doesn’t stop at home. Skipping regular dental checkups is a mistake that can lead to serious issues. Over time, dentures can wear down or become loose, leading to discomfort or difficulty eating and speaking.
At Newark Dental Associates, we recommend routine checkups to ensure your dentures fit properly and are in good condition. Regular visits with Dr. Stickel also allow us to check for any signs of oral health problems and make adjustments to your dentures as needed.
Book a Consultation for Proper Denture Maintenance
Proper denture care is essential to keep them looking and feeling their best. By avoiding these common cleaning mistakes, you can ensure your dentures last longer and continue to provide the comfort and functionality you need.
If you have any questions about denture care or need assistance, Dr. Stickel and the team at Newark Dental Associates are here to help. Call us today at (740) 344-4000 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve patients in Newark, Heath, Granville, Johnstown, and Pataskala, OH. Let us help you maintain a healthy smile!