Our office offers special services, such as the fabrication of dentures. A complete set of dentures replaces an entire upper or lower arch of teeth on an edentulous ridge (without teeth); partial dentures can replace some teeth in an arch and then can fit in with the existing natural teeth that are still left. Complete and partial dentures can both be fabricated to snap onto implant attachments for added retention and support. Complete and partial dentures are able to be removed and they are meant to be worn during the day, but then taken out at night.
Regular trips to your dentist are important, even if you have both upper and lower complete dentures. Your dentist can make adjustments that will ensure that your dentures continue to fit naturally and comfortably. Like natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned to remove plaque, food particles and other debris that could get stuck in your dentures. Cleaning and keeping your dentures will ensure that they are in top shape, and will also help keep the soft tissues of your mouth healthy. However, an unclean or poorly maintained denture or set of dentures can cause infections, irritation, and discomfort.
It’s important to remember to rinse and brush your dentures after every meal that you have, and to soak your dentures in denture solution overnight. This also allows your gums to breathe while you sleep, while keeping your oral tissues healthy. Even with regular care, your dentures may still have stains, so they will periodically need to be cleaned by the dentist. Powerful ultrasonic cleaners can be used at the dental office to remove hard deposits of plaque, tartar and other substances.
Below are some techniques to help keep your dentures clean:
- People may brush their dentures in many different ways. Some people may use soap and water or a denture cleaning paste or solution.
- The use of hard bristled toothbrushes or toothpastes should not be used on your dentures. These may contain highly abrasive components that can scratch, crack or damage your dentures.
- You should hold your dentures gently in the palm of your hand over a water-filled sink. You can clean your dentures with cool water. Unfortunately, hot water may warp a denture. By using a small washcloth placed in the bottom of the sink, this will ensure that your dentures won’t get damaged if they fall out of your hands.
- You should soak your dentures overnight in any over the counter product available such as: Efferdent or Polident; and remember to rinse your dentures before placing them back in your mouth in the morning.
- Please remember to use a separate toothbrush to clean your natural teeth, as well as your gum tissues.
