Your removable full dentures are specially made. As a result, it’s important you take good care of them to ensure you get full use of them and can enjoy all the great benefits a quality, well-fitting set of dentures can provide. However, you will need to regularly take your dentures out, and it’s at these times that they can become damaged. This is why we’ve put together a brief guide on how to best care for your dentures when you don’t have them in.
1. Handle Your Dentures Carefully & Take Them Out Correctly
As you get used to having removable dentures, it can take some practice to know how to take them out effectively and efficiently. We find that many people accidentally damage their dentures by taking them out incorrectly, or by fumbling them as they remove them. This is why it’s important to talk with your prosthetist about how to remove your dentures for the first time. They can then show you how to do it and provide tips.
Of course, even seasoned denture wearers can slip up and accidentally drop their removable dentures as they take them out. This is why it’s best to prepare the space you’re in before taking your dentures out and know how best to handle your dentures.
For instance, a towel or washcloth placed on the counter or sink can help to cushion them in case you drop them. Additionally, as you handle them, hold them firmly by the base, not by the teeth. This will help to avoid accidentally bending or breaking the teeth. Finally, when setting your dentures down, place them in a safe, easily accessible location.
If you do happen to drop your dentures, check them for damage before putting them back in your mouth. In the case that they are damaged, arrange to see your prosthetist as soon as possible to get them repaired. DIY denture jobs never end well, so it’s better to go to a professional.
2. Store Them Properly & Safely
When you take your dentures out at night, and after giving them a good brush and clean, you need to store them correctly. Ideally, you should store your dentures in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in water when you’re not wearing them. This will help to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out or becoming misshapen.
If you soak your dentures in a denture cleanser solution, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended soak time.
When you’re not soaking your removable dentures, store them in a clean, dry place. This should be out of reach of children or pets to avoid accidents.
Further, no matter how or where you store your removable dentures, make sure that they are not kept near heat sources as this can cause them to warp.
If you’re travelling and won’t have access to a denture cleanser solution or water, you can store your dentures in a sealable plastic bag. Just be sure to rinse them thoroughly with water before putting them back in your mouth. Of course, it’s better to be prepared and to bring everything you need with you to properly and safely store your dentures.
3. Know How to Clean Them to Avoid Bacteria Buildup
Regularly cleaning your dentures when they’re not in your mouth is an important part of caring for them. This helps to prevent infections and other dental problems, along with minimising staining to your dentures and reducing damage and wear.
Luckily, one of the great things about removable dentures is that, unlike natural teeth, you can simply pull them out to give them a thorough clean. This makes it much easier to get into all those nooks and crannies, as well as ensure that you’ve got every last bit of food and plaque.
We recommend starting your clean by rinsing your dentures thoroughly with water after each meal to remove large food particles and plaque. Then, brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner. It’s important to avoid using abrasive cleaners and toothpaste as these can scratch the surface and cause them to become discoloured. Additionally, be sure to not clean your dentures in hot water, as this can make them warp.
Learn More Denture Care Tips & Look After Your Dentures With Direct Denture Care
Whether you need some more advice for caring for your dentures, or you’re due for a check-up, reline or new set, Direct Denture Care can help. So, make your appointment today!
