Denture

Caring for Dentures

dentures

What to expect with new dentures

Dentures are very different from your natural teeth; unlike your teeth, dentures are not anchored in bone, but instead rest on top of mobile tissue. This means that the denture, especially the lower denture, can and will move in your mouth when you eat and when you speak.  Eating with your dentures will take some getting used, so to help do the following:

  • Start with soft, easy to chew foods such as – fish, cheese, eggs, chopped meat, cooked vegetables, or ice cream
  • Take small bites
  • Chew on both sides of your mouth at the same time; this helps to stabilize the denture.
  • Biting into food is difficult with dentures and will tend to dislodge the upper denture.  Therefore, foods like apples and corn on the cob should be sliced before eating.
  • Avoid very hot foods and drinks to prevent burns as dentures decrease temperature sensation.

It is normal for dentures to cause sore spots and require adjustments.  Typically, we will see you after 1 week to evaluate the gums and adjust the denture as necessary.  Sometimes this is the only adjustment required, sometimes multiple adjustments are necessary before the dentures are comfortable.

 

It may be necessary to visit the dentist sooner if any of the following occur:

  • Sore spots
  • Chips
  • Breaks – dentures do break.  Do not try to repair the denture yourself. Place the broken pieces in a Ziploc bag and bring them to your appointment.

 

Regular Denture/Partial Cleaning

Removable partial or full dentures require proper denture care to keep them clean, free from stains and looking their best. For good denture care:

  • Remove and rinse dentures after eating. Run water over your dentures to remove food debris and other loose particles. You may want to place a towel on the counter or in the sink so that the dentures won’t break if you drop them.
  • Clean your mouth after removing your dentures. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush on natural teeth and gauze or a soft toothbrush to clean your tongue and palate.
  • Scrub your dentures at least daily. Gently scrub your dentures using a denture cleaner, mild soap or dishwashing liquid and a denture brush or soft toothbrush to remove food, plaque and other deposits. Avoid stiff-bristled brushes, strong cleansers and harsh toothpaste, as these are too abrasive and can damage your dentures. Toothpastes advertised as whitening pastes are especially abrasive and should be avoided with removable dentures.
  • Handle your dentures carefully. Be sure you don’t bend or damage the plastic or the clasps when cleaning.
  • NEVER SOAK YOUR DENTURE IN HOT WATER. Doing so will warp the appliance, rendering it unfit for wearing.
  • Soak dentures overnight. Most types of dentures need to remain moist to keep their shape. Place the dentures in water or a mild denture-soaking solution overnight. Don’t soak dentures with metal attachments in solutions that contain chlorine because it can tarnish the metal. Our doctors will advise you on suitable soaking solutions.
  • Rinse dentures before putting them back in your mouth, especially if using a denture-soaking solution. These solutions can contain harmful chemicals that cause vomiting, pain or burns if swallowed.
  • Schedule regular dental checkups. Our doctors can help ensure a proper fit to prevent slippage and discomfort. Please schedule an appointment with us if your dentures become loose; loose dentures can cause irritation, sores and infection. Our doctors will also examine your remaining teeth and soft tissues for signs of oral cancer, which increases in prevalence with age.