5 Bad Habits Denture-Wearers Need to Avoid

When you first get new dentures, you’ll need some time to adjust to them. Eventually, you may become so comfortable with your new smile that it might not even feel like you’re wearing a dental prosthetic at all. However, if you’re not careful, it can be all too easy to neglect your dentures, causing them to wear out sooner than you might like. To protect your new smile, make sure that you’re avoiding these 5 bad dentures habits.

1. Not Wearing Your Dentures on a Regular Basis

Surprisingly, some people end up frequently forgetting to wear their dentures, and in other cases, they may simply choose not to put them in. This is an issue because dentures are designed under the assumption that you’ll wear them often. If you don’t, they could potentially dry out and lose their shape. As such, you should always make sure that you’re wearing your dentures regularly.

2. Not Taking Your Dentures Out Before Bed

Of course, just because you need to wear your dentures often doesn’t mean you should keep them in your mouth 24/7. Before you go to bed, you should always take your dentures out and soak them in a specialized solution. This is because harmful bacteria can easily accumulate on your dentures; leaving them in at night can lead to bad breath and gum disease. Furthermore, taking your dentures out gives the tissues supporting them a chance to rest.

3. Not Cleaning Your Dentures Often

It’s not enough to simply take your dentures out before bed. You also need to clean them at least two times a day, ideally after you’ve finished eating. Regular cleanings are essential for getting rid of bacteria and food particles; otherwise, you may find that your new teeth will develop a less-than-pleasant aroma over time.

4. Not Cleaning Your Dentures Correctly

Cleaning your dentures every day won’t be enough if you don’t use the proper tools and techniques. For example, you can brush your dentures, but you shouldn’t use toothpaste to do so because its abrasive properties could end up damaging your prosthetic teeth. Similarly, you should only use a soft-bristled toothbrush on your dentures; hard bristles are more likely to leave scratches.

Your dentist will give you instructions for cleaning dentures the correct way. Make sure you follow the provided directions carefully.

5. Trying to Repair Your Dentures on Your Own

If your dentures have suffered from minor damage, you might think you can repair them on your own. However, denture design is more complex than you might think; even a minor adjustment could change the way they fit. Therefore, it’s best to always leave repairs in the hands of an expert. Call your dentist right away if you’re having trouble with your dentures.

About the Author

Dr. John Russo earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine with honors at the University of Florida. He served as a general dental officer in the United States Air Force for two years. Today, he helps patients in Orlando enjoy healthier, brighter smiles. He’s proud to offer custom dentures as an affordable solution for missing teeth. If you’d like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Russo, visit his website or call (407) 470-1224.