Avoid These 5 Denture Dangers

If you’ve just restored your smile with the help of dentures, congratulations! Dentures not only make you look like your old self again, but they also make it easy for you to enjoy a wider variety of nutritious foods. But before you begin enjoying the benefits of your new teeth, make sure you know how to make them last for as long as possible.  Otherwise, you could be faced with costly repairs or frequent replacements!

Drop the Habit

Are you a nailbiter? An estimated 30 percent of the population is. But while it may make you feel better in stressful situations, it’s not doing your body any favors. Not only can it cause damage to your fingernails and skin, but it can also break your dentures! Thus, quitting this nervous habit is an important way to preserve the condition of your new teeth.

Goodbye, Gum

Sugarless gum can keep your mouth entertained, reduce plaque acid, and freshen your breath. Unfortunately, however, it can be dangerous for your dentures. Even gum that’s advertised as “denture safe” can still get stuck to your crowns or dislodge them while chewing. If you’re looking for a way to freshen your breath, stick to mouthwash, soft mints, or add in an extra toothbrushing session as needed.

Don’t Sleep on It

It can be easy to want to skip your nightly oral hygiene routine after a particularly long day, but sleeping in your dentures is never a good idea. That’s because not only will this allow oral bacteria to thrive overnight, but it can also cause permanent damage to them if they dry out. Worse yet, it can also promote bone deterioration in your jaw, which could eventually result in the need for a bone graft procedure!

No Days Off

It may seem tempting to take a day off from wearing your dentures, especially if they don’t fit comfortably. But unfortunately, this can increase the risk of them drying out and cracking. Thus, if they are feeling uncomfortable for any reason, make an appointment with your dentist to have them checked so you can still take advantage of their many benefits without the pain.

Keep it Clean

Keeping your dentures clean takes a little time. While you can brush them in your mouth twice a day just like you would your natural teeth, it is very important that you remove them at least once a day to clean them completely.  Be sure to brush all sides, including the crowns and base, and floss between each tooth. Then, rinse them well and be sure to soak them in water or denture soak overnight once they’re clean.

Remember, dentures are an investment in your oral and overall health, but in order to ensure they last as long as possible, you need to use them correctly and take proper care of them!

About Dr. Shah

Dr. Hiren H. Shah understands that a beautiful smile can change your life. If you’re looking for a way to replace lost permanent teeth that is attractive, functional, and affordable, dentures from Signature Smiles could be the solution.

To find out more about how restoring your bite with these versatile prosthetics can help improve your diet and well-being, schedule a consultation with Dr. Shah today by visiting our website or calling us at 908-834-8448.