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Tooth loss can happen regardless of age, but it should not limit you from having a great smile. Dentures are a great way to replace missing teeth and can help improve your smile and appearance. Without the support dentures provide, your facial muscles will begin sag, making you look older. Dentures will also help you speak comfortably and eat better.
Caring for your dentures is essential, both for a longer lifespan of your dentures and the health of your mouth. Here are five important reminders you should not do when caring for your dentures:
1. Don’t use sharp objects
When cleaning your dentures, avoid using anything sharp or abrasive near your dentures. It is not recommended to use dental scrapers or toothpicks because they can easily slip and cause damage around your mouth tissue.
2. Don’t use regular brush and toothpaste
There is a big difference between a denture brush and the typical brush you use daily. Standard toothbrushes have coarser materials that are too tough for your dentures and could slowly tear them apart. Since dentures are made of a different material than your natural teeth, a standard brush will not work for them.
This same mindset goes for the right toothpaste for your dentures. Natural teeth are made of enamel, while dentures are made of either metal or acrylic resin. Similar to how you will not use a floor cleaner to wash your car, you should avoid using the wrong toothpaste for your dentures. Keep your dentures thoroughly clean by using the right denture brush and toothpaste.
3. Don’t use hot water to rinse dentures
While it’s tempting to use hot water to kill the bacteria, using them to rinse your dentures is not advisable because it will warp your dentures. Dentures can be expensive, so it’s better to stick with cooler to warm water when cleaning them.
4. Don’t use tugging movements when eating with your dentures
For those who only started having dentures, it could take some time before they get used to it. Using them correctly ensures that your dentures will last longer. However, learning to eat with your dentures can be tricky. Don’t take large bites of food, especially meat. Avoid tugging movements as well when you bite and chew the food and do not bite down on hard items to avoid chipping and damaging your front dentures.
5. Don’t use bleach
When it is about cleaning your dentures, never use bleach. Do not pay attention to what you read online or what others tell you. Though bleach makes your dentures look whiter, it contains a hazardous substance that puts your dentures and body at risk.
Living with dentures can be tough and require some adjusting. The most important thing is that you must never neglect your dentures. Because they are part of your day-to-day life, it is only right that you take care of them. Don’t toss them about carelessly nor just take them for granted. Be gentle and mindful when handling them, and keep them clean and sanitized at all times. This not only ensures clean and long-lasting dentures, but this also keeps your mouth healthy and happy.
If you’re looking for a local dentist in Ann Arbor to help you get dentures, get in touch with us to see how we can help.
