Denture Don’ts: 3 Harmful Habits to Avoid

Dentures are a popular way to replace missing teeth because they’re a versatile solution that can simultaneously restore your smile’s appearance and functionality. You’ll feel like your best self without unsightly gaps in your grin. Plus, with them in place, you can enjoy meals and conversations more like you used to.

However, it’s imperative that you care for your prosthetics correctly to continue making the most of them. Although they’re pretty durable, it’s possible to break or damage them if you don’t take the proper precautions. With that in mind, keep reading to learn about three things to avoid with dentures!

Harmful Habit #1: Neglecting Dental Hygiene

If you’ve already lost all your teeth, you might assume that you no longer need to worry about keeping your mouth clean. Just because you have dentures doesn’t mean you no longer need your daily dental hygiene routine, though. Your prosthetics are pressed against your connective tissues all day, trapping germs against them. This increases the likelihood of developing gum disease, which can spread to and weaken your jawbone if left unaddressed.

To prevent potential problems, brush and floss your dentures twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild dish soap, then rinse them clean. You should also scrub your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth for a thorough cleanse.

Harmful Habit #2: Sleeping in Them

Many patients must wait about a month before their mouth grows fully accustomed to the pressure of supporting their dentures all day. It’s normal to experience some mild sensitivity or develop sores until you acclimate to speaking and eating with them. Unfortunately, some people grow frustrated with frequently removing and reinserting their restoration, especially when it feels uncomfortable.

As a result, you might be tempted to fall asleep with them still in your mouth. While this might seem more comfortable in the moment, it can have some negative long-term effects. For example, you’re more prone to developing gum disease because less saliva is produced at night, allowing germs to flourish. This can cause plaque buildup that contributes to bad breath and gum disease. It’s better to place your new teeth in a glass of water or a special soaking solution overnight

Harmful Habit #3: Skipping Dental Visits

Even if you have no natural teeth remaining, you should still schedule a routine checkup with your dentist every six months. This allows them to monitor your oral condition so they can identify and address any areas of concern before they progress into real problems. For instance, if your gums show signs of disease, they can work with you to halt it in its tracks before it can interfere with your prosthetics.

Now that you know what to look out for, you can keep your dentures in great shape for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Capehart has 15+ years of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain their happiest, healthiest smiles. He earned his doctor of dental surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, where he graduated magna cum laude. Now, he offers a wide array of services conveniently under one roof, including dentures. He prioritizes patient comfort by providing a stress-free experience. Then, he utilizes state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 436-1325.