Common Mistakes to Avoid While Wearing Dentures

Dentures in Burlington, ON, whether full or partial dentures, are vital for individuals dealing with missing teeth. They not only reinstate your smile but also play a significant role in chewing food properly and maintaining clear speech. However, ensuring proper care for dentures is needed to secure their longevity and your overall oral health.

Common Mistakes in Denture Care

Poor Cleaning Habits

• Inadequate Brushing Techniques: Proper brushing of dentures involves using a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild denture cleaner. Ensure to brush all surfaces, including the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces, to remove food particles and plaque effectively.
• Skipping Overnight Soaking: Overnight soaking helps to keep dentures moist, which in turn prevent them from drying out and losing their shape. It also allows the denture cleaner solution to thoroughly clean and disinfect them, promoting oral hygiene.
• Using Toothpaste or Harsh Cleaners: Toothpaste and harsh cleaners can be abrasive and damage the surface of dentures. Instead, opt for denture-specific cleaning products recommended by your Burlington dentist at.

Improper Handling

• Dropping Dentures: Accidental dropping of dentures can lead to cracks, fractures, or even complete breakage. When handling dentures, ensure to do so over a basin of water or a soft towel to minimize the impact of falls.
• Chewing on Hard Objects: Using dentures to chew on very hard objects like ice or pens can exert excessive pressure, causing them to weaken or break. Stick to soft foods and avoid habits that can jeopardize the integrity of your dentures.
• Using Teeth as Tools: Using dentures as tools to open packages or bite nails can strain their structure and lead to premature wear and tear. Always use appropriate tools for such tasks to avoid damaging your dentures.

Neglecting Oral Hygiene

• Forgetting to Clean the Mouth and Gums: Even with dentures, it’s essential to maintain oral hygiene by brushing your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft-bristled brush. This helps remove bacteria and plaque, reducing the risk of bad breath and oral infections.
• Ignoring Signs of Infection or Irritation: Redness, swelling, or sore spots in the mouth should not be ignored as they could indicate an ill-fitting denture or an underlying infection. Promptly consult your dentist in Burlington if you experience any discomfort or irritation.

Incorrect Storage

• Leaving Dentures Exposed to Air: Dentures should be kept in water or a denture solution when not in use to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle. Dry dentures are more prone to warping and distortion.
• Storing Dentures in Hot Water: Hot water can make the dentures to warp or lose their shape. Always use lukewarm water for soaking and storage to maintain the integrity of your dentures.

Consequences of Mistakes

Oral Health Issues

Poor denture care can lead to various oral health issues, including gum irritation, inflammation, and oral infections. These conditions not only cause discomfort but also compromise your overall oral health.

Damage to Dentures

Improper handling and storage can result in damage to dentures or false teeth, such as warping, distortion, breakage, or cracking. Damaged dentures not only affect their functionality but also require costly repairs or replacements.

Discomfort and Inconvenience

Ill-fitting or damaged dentures can make chewing and speaking difficult, leading to discomfort and embarrassment in social situations. This can affect your quality of life and confidence.

Tips for Proper Denture Care

Daily Cleaning Routine

• Brush dentures gently using a soft-bristled brush and a mild denture cleaner to remove food particles and plaque effectively.
• Soak dentures overnight in a denture cleanser solution to keep them clean and disinfected.

Handling Precautions

• Handle dentures carefully over a soft surface to minimize the risk of accidental damage.
• Avoid using dentures for tasks other than chewing, as this can strain their structure and lead to damage.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene

• Brush your gums, tongue, and palate daily with a soft-bristled brush to remove bacteria and plaque.
• Schedule regular oral checkups with your dentist to ensure proper oral care and address any issues promptly.

Proper Storage

• Store dentures safely in water or a specific denture solution when not in use. This prevents them from drying out and becoming brittle.
• Avoid keeping dentures in hot water, as it causes them to buckle and lose their shape.

Conclusion

In conclusion, proper denture care is essential for maintaining oral health and comfort. By avoiding common mistakes and following the tips provided, individuals can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of their dentures. Remember to consult your dentist at Walkers Line Dental Centre for personalized advice and care. Take complete charge of your oral health and enjoy a confident smile with well-maintained dentures.