We thought this would be the perfect opportunity to discuss some tips for maintaining your partial denture or orthodontic retainer.
1. Give them a break
Take your dentures out before going to bed so that mouth tissues can recover from wear during the day. Soak dentures or retainers in warm water if they have metal clasps. If they don’t, you can use either a vinegar and water solution or a special denture cleanser. This will help to remove stains, plaque, tartar and bacteria.
2. Handle with care.
Since oral appliances don’t come cheap and can break easily, you’ll want to be careful with them. Clean them over a folded towel or bowl of water in case they drop. Remember; always put them in plastic container when you are not wearing them!
3. Clean daily
Just because these aren’t your real teeth, that doesn’t mean they don’t need regular cleaning. If your dentures are plagued with plaque, it can lead to problems in the tissues underneath, such as infection and irritation. Brush your dentures with a regular soft-bristled brush—not the same one you use for your real teeth. You can use regular hand soap, mild dishwashing detergent, mildly abrasive toothpaste or dental paste for cleaning your dentures.
4. Maintain your oral health
Even if you have complete dentures, you still need to care for your gums. Whenever you take out your dentures, give your mouth a good rinse and then massage your gums with a washcloth or a soft toothbrush. If you have partial dentures, you still need to properly brush and floss your regular teeth every day.
5. See your dentist.
Remember to see your dentist at least once a year and your hygienist for your regularly scheduled cleanings. Dentists examine your oral tissues for changes and for sores that might become cancerous. We can also provide advice as to oral hygiene and denture care.
6. Watch for changes in fit.
If your dentures aren’t fitting properly or just don’t feel right, check with your dentist. The gums and bones in your mouth change over time, leading to an improper denture fit. Your dentist can adjust your dentures to protect against problems like sores, pain and burning that can come from ill-fitting dentures. Ill-fitting dentures can also be a sign of periodontal disease, so it’s important to get checked.
