Are you having trouble chewing or speaking after losing one or more teeth? Your dentist can provide affordable and effective tooth replacement treatment with removable dentures.
You can restore your smile’s function and appearance with dentures. But you should make sure you follow instructions from your dentist to maintain these fixtures and get the most out of your treatment. Dr. Ken Schweifler, a dentist practicing in Los Altos, CA, outlines three steps you should take to properly care for your dentures.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
To protect the structure of your dentures as well as your smile, you should practice proper oral hygiene. This entails brushing your teeth twice each day and flossing daily.
With removable dentures, you take out your appliance when you complete your oral hygiene regimen. This ensures that you can have unimpeded access to your remaining teeth and get your teeth thoroughly clean.
Taking care of your smile will prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Structural damage from these issues can alter your smile, which may mean that your dentures will no longer fit properly, and you will need to replace your fixtures. You can get the most out of your dentures when you take a comprehensive approach to your oral health.
Rinse and Soak Your Dentures
You will need to complete a separate cleaning and maintenance routine for your dentures. Though an oral appliance is not subject to decay like your teeth, it can still garner plaque or food particles that may linger on the fixture and affect your oral health.
You can clean your dentures by brushing them with a specialized cleanser. This can be done when you complete your typical oral hygiene routine. You should also rinse your dentures before replacing them back in your mouth any time you have taken them out.
When not in use, such as during sleep, you should soak the appliance in a cleaning solution. Dentures can warp their shape if they dry out, which may mean that you will need to pay for a new fixture. Taking these steps to care for your dentures will ensure they last as long as possible.
Visit Your Dentist for Routine Check-Ups
A major part of your oral hygiene routine will include attending routine visits to your dentist. They will clean your teeth, examine your smile for signs of dental concerns, and ensure your dentures still fit properly. With this proper maintenance, your removable dentures can last for five years before needing a replacement.
Dentures and Other Oral Appliances in Los Altos, CA
Dr. Schweifler offers dentures and other tooth replacement solutions to patients in Los Altos, CA. Our practice also specializes in restorative, cosmetic, and general dentistry, including both preventative and emergency dental care, for patients of all ages. We can provide optimal services to senior patients in particular and their unique dental needs. To schedule a consultation or appointment with our team, contact our staff by phone at 650.489.4620 or reach our office online.