You need to always ensure that your dentures in Tyler are staying clean. Not only is it important for your personal hygiene, but it also helps to increase the life of your dentures before you need to have them replaced. Even though your dentist gave you instructions on how to properly clean your dentures, you are probably wondering if there is a more efficient way. Read on to learn if cleaning dentures is as effective if you are still wearing them as well as some tips to keep your false teeth in excellent shape.
Can You Brush Your Dentures While You Wear Them?
Yes, you can still brush your dentures while you are wearing them, but this isn’t the best way to clean them. Giving them a quick brush when you are wearing them isn’t harmful, but the problem with doing this is that you won’t be able to thoroughly clean all the surfaces. You will need to remove them to brush key areas with a soft-bristled toothbrush. You will probably find that it is much easier to just remove your dentures completely before you clean them.
How Do You Care for Dentures?
Your dentures require daily care if you want to keep them in the best possible shape for a long period of time. Here are some steps that you should take if you aren’t already:
- Remove after eating: In order to remove food debris and other particles, you need to rinse them after you finish meals.
- Keep your mouth clean: When you remove your dentures, you should clean your mouth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This includes your natural tooth, tongue, cheeks, and the roof of your mouth.
- Brush daily: Every day, you need to soak your dentures and brush them with a nonabrasive denture cleanser and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Never use denture cleansers inside your mouth.
- Soak overnight: Most of the time, dentures need to remain moist to keep their proper shape. Follow your dentist’s instructions about the type of solution you should be using and where you should keep your dentures while you sleep.
- Regular checkups: Even though they aren’t your natural teeth, you still need to head to the dentist regularly for checkups. You should also head in if your dentures become loose because you could experience issues like soreness, irritation, and infections.
You can brush your dentures while they’re still in your mouth but remember that you will still need to take them out to clean them more thoroughly. By taking all of the necessary steps to keep your dentures clean, you will be able to show off your new smile for many years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Dennis E. Stansbury is an experienced dentist whose career spans 44 years. He graduated from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas and is currently a member of numerous professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Dentists. For more information on dentures or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stansbury at his office in Tyler, visit his website or call (903) 561-1122.