Dentures, whether they be full or partial, can do wonders for you when they are first put in. For one, there is a noticeable surge of confidence as your missing teeth are no longer apparent but the biggest bonus is that you are able to properly eat and talk.

For those new to dentures, taking care of false teeth can be easy to forget or completely foreign. Maybe you’ve used a solution to clean them before that isn’t outright made for dentures. You could have also left them out to dry at night by accident.

Regardless, our dentists here at Grandville Dental Health Center are here to help you care for your dentures to ensure they last for years to come. Let’s go over a few of the most common questions regarding denture care.

What Should I Use to Clean My Dentures?

Dentures need proper care to remain viable and like your natural teeth, they need to be cleaned daily if you want to have good oral health. After each time you eat, it’s best to rinse them under water to clear off any food debris or other loose particles that may be present. Be careful not to bend the plastic or drop them while initially washing them off as they could break.

Another good practice to follow during the day, and every day for that matter, is to brush your dentures. Under cool water, use a soft bristled toothbrush to remove food or plaque. If you happen to use a type of adhesive with your dentures, be sure to clean the grooves where the adhesive is applied so there is no buildup.

At night, it’s important to remember that your dentures need to soak when they are not in your mouth or they will dry out, crack, or warp. It’s generally a good idea to take them out before going to sleep, unless instructed by our dentists. Then, place them in a glass of water or mild denture cleanser. If you decide to use a cleaning solution, be sure to rinse your dentures off before putting them back in.

What Should I Avoid When Cleaning?

Keep it simple when cleaning your dentures. Certain practices or cleansers from the store can cause damage. Use only gentle solutions, cleaners, or toothpastes with your full or partial dentures.

Here are a few things to avoid at all times:

• Running your dentures under hot or boiling water.
• Using hard bristled toothbrushes to brush away food debris or other deposits.
• Brushing with a harsh or whitening toothpaste as they do little to change the color of false teeth.
• Strong or abrasive cleaning materials.
• Any bleach-containing products as they can be harmful and weaken dentures.

How Long Do Dentures Last?

If maintained and cared for, dentures tend to last anywhere from 5 to 8 years. When you come in for an oral examination, our denture dentists in Grandville, MI, can professionally clean as well as look at your dentures to make sure no repairs are needed.

Be sure to also tell our dentists if you are experiencing a loose fit with regards to your dentures and adjustments can be made.

How Should I Clean My Mouth After Taking the Dentures Out?

After you remove your dentures, cleaning the rest of your mouth and natural teeth is just as important. Clean out any remaining adhesive from your gums and use a soft toothbrush to clean existing teeth. Gauze or the same soft toothbrush can also be used to clean your cheeks, tongue, and the roof of your mouth.

Keep Your Dentures Clean

Need more help when it comes to cleaning your dentures or have a fit issue you’d like resolved? Our denture dentists in Grandville, MI, can check the condition of your false teeth at your next preventive care appointment.

Request an appointment online or call Grandville Dental Health Center today at (616) 531-0360.