Making the adjustment from having natural teeth to dentures is something that takes time, and a patient should not expect it to be an overnight process. Once a patient in San Francisco has been sent home with a new set of dentures, there are basic things that a patient needs to be aware of to maximize both their oral health and the long-term health of their dentures.
Keeping the Dentures Clean is Essential
One of the most vital things a patient needs to do with their dentures on a daily basis is to clean them and care for them as if they were their natural teeth. Here are a couple of important things a patient should keep in mind when cleaning their dentures:
- They cannot be cleaned with toothpaste, as it is abrasive and can create microscopic scratches in the dentures, allowing food and plaque to build up. Instead, use hand soap or a mild dishwashing liquid to clean them, as it will not damage them.
- Instead of using a toothbrush to clean the dentures, use a soft bristle brush that has been specifically designed for that purpose. Hard-bristled brushes will damage the dentures and create scratches in them. Also, do not bend any of the attachments or damage the plastic while cleaning the dentures.
- In between brushings, a patient should make sure to wash their dentures after every meal to prevent any buildup of food or plaque on them.
Care for the New Dentures When You’re Not Wearing Them
In San Francisco, it is just as important for a patient to care for their dentures when they are not wearing them as when they are. Here are some tips to keep in mind to make sure a patient gets the longest possible usage out of their new dentures:
- When a patient is not wearing their dentures, they need to be kept in a moist environment. This prevents them from drying out or losing shape and is vital to their longevity.
- If a patient’s dentures have metal attachments, they need to make sure to consult with their dentists about the best way to care for them.
- Always use lukewarm water when cleaning the dentures or keeping them moist. Any kind of hot water will cause them to warp and thus render them unusable to a patient.
Some Additional Tips to Help Care for New Dentures
Some additional things to keep in mind are the following when a San Francisco patient is learning to take care of their new dentures:
- Be careful when handling them, as they can break quite easily if dropped on the ground.
- Make sure to take the dentures out before going to sleep each evening. They can become uncomfortable and impact a patient’s oral health if left in overnight.
Dentures are a new lifestyle change that is well worth the process, and our doctors here at SF Oral Surgery will be with you during every step.
If you are based in San Francisco and are considering getting dentures, call us today at (415) 776-6710.
