Got Dentures? Avoid These Habits
Whether you have dentures or are considering getting dentures, it is essential to know certain habits to avoid and how to take care of them to ensure that they maintain their shape, reduce the risk of warping, and minimize staining.
Poor dental habits are not only bad for your oral health, but they can also result in causing damage to your dentures.
We will tell you which habits to avoid to help you better care for your dentures and improve their longevity.
Habits To Avoid When Wearing Dentures
It can be easy to slip into bad habits once dentures become part of your routine and you feel more comfortable. However, avoiding these habits is crucial and can substantially extend your dentures’ life.
1. Skipping or Forgetting To Brush
The most common thing many people need to remember when they wear dentures is to brush their teeth. Forgetting to brush your teeth can lead to bacteria accumulating on your dentures, bad breath, and other oral health issues.
Brushing your dentures at least twice a day will ensure they stay clean, and many dentures will generally recommend that you brush them after each meal. You can utilize a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush your dentures, removing any small food particles before you soak them in a denture cleanser.
2. Skipping or Forgetting To Floss
When you wear dentures, you must practice good oral hygiene habits to prevent tartar and plaque from building up on your dentures. Food particles, tartar, and plaque can irritate your gums and affect how your dentures fit.
Unfortunately, plaque can build up quickly on your dentures and cause you to have bad breath, and increase the chances of infection. Flossing your teeth daily to remove food particles stuck between your teeth is vital.
3. Wearing Your Dentures Inconsistently
Many people often will fall out of the habit of wearing their dentures once they have gotten used to having them and become less consistent about daily wearing, especially on the weekend or relaxed days. Wearing your dentures consistently ensures that your mouth gets used to them and stays accustomed to having them in.
When you wear your dentures inconsistently, it may cause your mouth to become sore or inflamed. Also, when you leave your dentures out too often, they are more likely to become dry, making them more susceptible to warping or getting damaged. You may also need to give your mouth a brief break periodically too.
4. Inconsistent Trips To The Dentist
Regular visits to your dentist to ensure that your dentures are clean and in good condition are crucial. Your dentist also needs to monitor your oral health and ensure that your dentures are free from damage, are fitting correctly, and are not needing to be relined or replaced.
5. Not Caring Properly For Your Dentures
If you handle your dentures carelessly or accidentally break them, don’t attempt to repair them with glue. Your dentist will also give you instructions on how to properly clean and maintain them properly and will help keep them in optimal condition. Visiting your dentist regularly for adjustments will help prolong the life of your dentures.
Avoid using toothpaste, hard-bristle toothbrushes, and hot water to clean your dentures.
6. Avoid Biting Your Nails
Biting your fingernails with your natural teeth damages them and can also hurt your dentures. The material dentures are made of is weaker than enamel, and they will be easily damaged if you continue to bite your nails when you wear them. Your dentures could get chipped, so do your best to stop biting your nails.
7. Avoid Chewing Gum
Gum can cause the dentures to become dislodged when talking, including gum labeled as “safe for dentures,” also. If you are craving a refreshing taste, try a sugar-free mint instead or a bit of mouthwash.
8. Avoid Sleeping In Your Dentures
It is best to avoid wearing your dentures 24 hours a day. This is especially true if you clench or grind your teeth at night, as it can cause dentures to wear out faster. Keeping your dentures in place requires pressure, so it is essential to rest your gums and jaw.
Developing good oral health habits, regularly visiting your dentist, and following your dentist care guidelines is the best way to prolong the life of your dentures and keep your beautiful white smile.
Visit Carrie Muzny DDS For All Your Dental Care Needs
Carrie Muzny DDS, located in the Woodlands area, offers dental care for the entire family, including preventive cleanings, cosmetic and restorative procedures, dentures and implants, professional teeth whitening, and more. Our team of highly trained experts has extensive experience and expert skills that allow us to offer you exceptional dental care. Contact us today to schedule a visit or consultation.
