Dentures offer a simple yet very effective solution for replacing missing teeth. However, a common mistake many people make when they first get dentures is thinking that since they no longer have most of their natural teeth, they can forego their daily dental hygiene routine. This, of course, is untrue, as even without natural teeth, the mouth does still accumulate food particles and germs that need to be brushed and cleaned away on a daily basis.
Regardless of whether you have partial or full dentures, proper gum care is necessary to make sure that your gums aren’t susceptible to bacteria, swelling, infection, and disease. Below are some of the ways you can care for your gums and mouth while wearing dentures.
Get Proper Fitting Dentures
Getting dentures that fit correctly and comfortably is the first step to ensuring the overall well-being of your gums and mouth. Finding a reliable denture company like The Denture Shop can be tricky, so make sure to do thorough research. Bear in mind that a new set of dentures may take some getting used to. However, if they still do not fit properly after you’ve had them for a few weeks, then they need to be adjusted. This also applies to older dentures that no longer feel comfortable or fit properly. You can consult either your denturist or a reliable mobile denture repair company to get your ill-fitting dentures adjusted.
Wearing dentures that fit correctly is what ensures that there is no pressure or pain in your gums.
Clean Your Dentures Properly
Yes, dentures are not real teeth and, therefore, can not develop cavities. However, food particles and plaque can build up in your dentures if you do not clean them properly. The plaque can then react with saliva and harden to form tartar which can cause gum irritation and infection. Bacteria may also build up and cause several health issues for your gums.
Keeping your dentures sanitary is the best way to avoid these health issues. It is also a way to prolong their lifespan. To keep your dentures in top shape, you need to; brush them daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser, rinse them after every meal, store them properly overnight (soaking them in water or denture solution is recommended), and making sure to rinse them before wearing every morning.
Clean Your Gums
In addition to cleaning your dentures, you also need to clean your gums and the rest of your mouth daily. To clean your gums, use either a soft-bristled toothbrush or a damp cloth with some toothpaste to gently rub around your gums. Doing this will remove bacteria and serve as good stimulation for your gums. Rinsing your mouth with some mouthwash (make sure it’s recommended by your dentist) can also help get rid of any bacteria that can be harmful to the gums. Do not forget to also clean your tongue and the roof of your mouth. If you still have some natural teeth left, be sure to brush and floss them as you normally would.
Give Your Gums Some Room to Rest Daily
After holding your dentures in place for the entire day, your gums will need some time to rest and recuperate. This means that you will need to take them out every night before you go to sleep. In order to stay healthy and comfortable, your gums need between 6-8 hours of breathing space.
In addition to keeping your gums healthy and free from sore spots, not wearing your dentures at night can also reduce the risk of bacteria building up under the dentures.
Remember to soak your dentures when they are not in use.
Avoid Tough and Chewy Foods
Tough and chewy foods require more chewing than necessary, and this can, in turn, cause unnecessary irritations to the gums. Hard foods can also cause your dentures to crack or chip, and this can lead to injuries to the gums.
Staying away from tough meats, seeds, nuts, popcorn, and chewy foods like candies, taffy, and chewing gum can help you avoid unnecessary rubbing, friction and pressure on the gums.
Don’t Use Tobacco Products
Habits like smoking or using tobacco products (smokeless tobacco or chewing tobacco) should be avoided while wearing dentures, as they can irritate the gums and other soft tissues in your mouth. They also increase the risk of oral cancers.
Visit Your Denturist Regularly
This is important because it provides the opportunity for your denturist to examine your gums and help you detect any signs of gum infection. It also gives you a chance to ask them any questions you may have about your dental hygiene and overall oral health.
Conclusion
Caring for your gums and mouth while wearing dentures is an essential part of denture care. It is what ensures that you get the best outcome from your denture solution while also maintaining good overall oral health.
