Dentures are best at replacing your missing teeth. You may feel a little uncomfortable wearing them at first. As time goes by, you’ll get used to them, as if you’re not wearing dentures at all. However, when this happens, chances are it’s easy to take your dentures for granted and pay less attention to their upkeep. As a result, they get wear out, lose their fit, or even lead you to some dental issues.
To save you from all the hassles and added expenses that come with wear-and-tear dentures, make sure to avoid the following bad habits:
1. You don’t wear your dentures regularly.
Dentures exist to serve a purpose. Once they are installed, make sure to use them regularly. Some people tend to forget or sometimes ignore wearing their dentures, which results in their dentures drying out and becoming deformed. Dentures can even get worse when you don’t wear them, and they get soaked in water. On the other hand, wearing them regularly, especially if they’re new, will help your mouth get used to their fit. Doing so can make your adjustment period much shorter.
2. You don’t take your dentures off before going to bed.
While some don’t wear their dentures regularly, others forget to take them off and even wear them while sleeping. Not taking off your dentures before going to bed can be very bad for your oral hygiene, as it can lead to potential dental infections. It’s important to know that you should give your mouth and gums a break from your dentures, and the best time to do so is when you’re sleeping.
3. You don’t clean your dentures regularly and properly.
Another bad habit is not cleaning your dentures regularly and properly. First, when it comes to cleaning, many individuals think of placing their dentures in a glass of water or cleaning only before they visit a dentist. However, it’s essential to clean your dentures regularly to ensure they won’t have bacteria build-up over time. Second, many individuals clean their dentures incorrectly or with the wrong tools. That said, avoid using toothpaste, a hard brush, or soaking them in hot water.
4. You resort to DIY repairs for your dentures.
Never resort to DIY repairs for your dentures. Though it’s easy to fix minor breaks or adjust the fit of your dentures by yourself, you may cost yourself more on extra expenses to fix your dentures, and that can even affect your oral health. Dentures have complex designs and structures that require special tools and dental expertise for proper adjustment and repair. Any slightest change may affect their structure and overall function. That said, it’s best to leave denture repairs and adjustments with your denture professional.
At this point, you now realize some of the mistakes you may have been doing, whether or not while you wear your dentures. Keep in mind the four bad habits mentioned above. It takes a conscious effort to take good care of your dentures to ensure they will last longer and to avoid any dental issues.
If you’re looking for a local dentist to help you with your dentures, get in touch with us today! We’re happy to help.