In a perfect world, every person would keep their natural teeth for a lifetime; however, that’s not always the case. You may find yourself exploring tooth replacement options because of genetics, tooth decay, and other dental issues.
If you decide dentures are the best way to restore your smile, you can expect to eat your favorite foods and not worry about facial sagging because of missing teeth. Today’s dentures are a reliable way to help you live life to the fullest. Right here in Paducah, KY!
Whether you choose partial, complete, or implant-supported dentures, keep reading to learn how to maintain your grin for a lifetime with dentures from Smile Station in Paducah, KY
Daily Cleaning Routine for Dentures
Regardless of your type of dentures, you must clean them daily to remove the bacteria, plaque, and tartar that can build up over time and harm your oral health. Follow these steps to clean your dentures properly:
- After you eat, remove your dentures and rinse them with cool water to remove any food particles.
- At least once a day, brush your dentures with a denture brush or soft-bristled toothbrush. Use either a mild soap or denture cleaner. Avoid regular toothpaste or other cleaners, as they can damage your dentures. When you’re finished, rinse your dentures.
- Don’t forget to clean your gums and any remaining natural teeth while your dentures are out of your mouth. Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste on your teeth and a wet washcloth on your gums.
Overnight Denture Care
It’s essential to care for your dentures overnight by adhering to these guidelines:
- Always remove your dentures before bed to avoid damage and give your mouth a chance to rest. Place them in a container of warm water or denture-soaking solution. Avoid hot water to keep your dentures from drying out and losing their shape.
- If your dentures have metal components, avoid the denture-soaking solution, as it can tarnish the metal parts.
Handling Denture Adhesives
If you use denture adhesive to hold your dentures in place, here are some tips for success:
- Clean and dry your dentures before applying adhesive.
- Apply a small amount of adhesive to your dentures once a day.
- Place your dentures in your mouth and carefully close your mouth.
- After a few seconds, check to see if the adhesive has overflowed and is visible. If it is, be careful not to swallow the excess adhesive; wipe it off with a clean towel.
- Wait at least five minutes before eating or drinking.
Regular Check-Ups and Professional Maintenance
Even if you wear full dentures and no longer have any of your natural teeth, you are still at risk for certain issues, including:
- Gum disease—Keeping your gums healthy can help you avoid health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Nutritional deficiencies—If your dentures don’t fit properly, you may avoid certain healthy foods that keep your body strong.
- Respiratory issues—Plaque buildup in your mouth can lead to respiratory infections and other complications.
For these reasons, you must visit your dentist for a checkup every six months to keep your mouth and body healthy.
Troubleshooting: Common Denture Issues and Solutions
Even though dentures are a great way to replace your missing teeth, there are some common concerns you may have to address at some point; here are some common denture issues and solutions:
- Bad breath—Bacteria can build up on your dentures and cause bad breath. If this happens, remove your dentures and thoroughly clean them.
- Difficulty speaking or chewing—Removable dentures are more prone to movement, making eating or speaking difficult. It’s important to practice speaking until you get used to your new teeth. When you eat, take your time chewing to avoid slippage.
- Excess saliva—Your mouth may produce more saliva than it needs when you wear dentures. Once you get used to wearing them, this issue should go away on its own.
- Improper fit—Your dentures may become loose if your jawbone shrinks or the shape of your mouth changes. If this happens, try biting down or use a denture adhesive to keep them in place. If this doesn’t work, call your dentist for next steps.
- Gum and mouth pain—If your gums become swollen or inflamed from wearing dentures, you can try over-the-counter creams or pain relievers. However, if that doesn’t work, contact your dentist so they can check to make sure your dentures fit properly.
- Jaw issues—Lower dentures can cause temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. If your jaw is popping or you are grinding your teeth, talk to your Paducah dentist about treatment.
Do You Need Dentures in Paducah, KY?
If you’re looking for a dentist in Paducah, KY, look no further than the dental team at Smile Station! We will happily help you navigate the transition to wearing dentures so you can enjoy a beautiful, comfortable, healthy smile.
When you’re ready to discuss dentures as a tooth replacement option, contact our dental office at (270) 408-1234 so we can develop a treatment plan that meets your needs.