How do I care for my dentures?

Have you chosen dentures to address tooth loss? If so, you probably have some questions. Once you adjust to your replacement teeth, you will enjoy custom, lifelike new teeth that increase oral function and improve your appearance. While life without teeth is difficult, life with prosthetic teeth is much easier. There is an adjustment period, however, when it comes to getting used to dentures. Fortunately, adjusting to dentures only takes a couple of weeks if you consider the following tips.

Cleaning Dentures

Dentures are cleaned in soaking solutions and with special brushes. A person’s dentures should be cleaned very frequently and kept in water when not in use. This is because dentures should be kept moist. If the materials used to mimic the gums dries out, a person’s denture can crack.

Wearing Dentures

When you begin wearing dentures, you might feel some discomfort at the end of the day. It takes some time for your gums to adjust to the weight of dentures. Soreness from dentures will subside but it is important to continue to wear your dentures during the day (with small breaks throughout, if necessary) so that your gums can adjust to the sensation of dentures.

Report Changes in the Way Dentures Fit

Your permanent dentures are made just for you. They are designed to accommodate the curves of your gums and jaw, fit perfectly inside your mouth, and complement your smile without appearing unnatural. However, the way dentures fit can change over time – especially if a person has developed bone atrophy. Bone loss can result in dentures that fit poorly. In the case of changes, patients should make an appointment with their dentist. Sometimes dentures require relining or must be replaced altogether if they do not perform as they should.

Receiving dentures can be a life changing experience. Our practice understands the delicate nature of treating tooth loss. We treat all our patients with dignity and provide quality care for people in our area. Call the office of Dr. Barry Buchanan today to schedule a tooth replacement consultation.