Adjusting to New Dentures: Can You Brush Your Dentures Like Regular Teeth?

New dentures provide many benefits for elderly individuals as well as those who have experienced significant tooth loss or other issues. While adjusting to new dentures can take some time, many people will do well once they understand the basics of caring for this dental appliance. For example, you might wonder if you can brush your dentures as you did with your regular teeth.

The answer to this common question is, yes, you can. In fact, you want to keep your dentures as clean as possible to make sure your mouth stays free of food debris and plaque. Brushing will help them last longer and function better.

The basics of good denture maintenance

Part of adjusting to new dentures is learning how to care for these important items. Proper care comes down to some basic information that is not always obvious to people:

• You can brush your dentures when they are still in your mouth
• You should use a soft-bristled brush but no toothpaste
• You can also care for your dentures while they are out of your mouth
• You should remove your dentures at night and place them in water or a denture solution

Occasionally, if the dentures show an accumulation of plaque or tartar, you can soak them in a solution of 20% vinegar and 80% water. When cleaning, it can be helpful to develop a set routine. This means finding a safe place to clean them without the potential for dropping and breaking them. If you do this at the sink, it is a good idea to fill the basin with water about halfway; in this case, if you drop them, they will not break on the porcelain.

The importance of good oral hygiene

Individuals with dentures should continue brushing any remaining teeth. This can be done with regular toothpaste, taking care not to get the paste on the dentures. You should gently brush your tongue, your gums, and the roof of your mouth at least once a day. This will help your mouth feel clean and fresh, prevent bad breath, and reduce the likelihood of sores. If any issues arise, a visit to the dentist is a good idea.

The benefits of proper care

Your dentist will provide you with advice on adjusting to new dentures, as well as with information on how to care for them. If yours need adjusting, this should be done by a professional. Attempting to fix them yourself could result in damage to this important dental appliance.

Keeping your dentures clean will help them last longer, and they will look better, too. You are also less likely to develop soreness in your mouth. With proper care, your dentures should last a long time, and they will bring years of satisfaction. You will be able to eat a greater variety of foods, and your smile will be something to make you feel proud.

Conclusion

The proper care of dentures is not much more difficult than taking care of your teeth. Once you learn the basics, you will just need to spend a few minutes each day keeping them clean.

Request an appointment here: https://www.culvercitydental.com or call Culver City Dental at (310) 272-5405 for an appointment in our Culver City office.

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