Avoid These Mistakes To Keep Your Dentures Damage-Free
If you have recently been fitted for and received new dentures, you want to keep them in the best possible condition so that they last you for years. While taking care of your dentures, make sure you avoid the following mistakes that could damage them.
Brushing the Dentures with a Regular Toothbrush
Since dentures are made from a manmade composite, you may think that they are more durable than your own teeth. As a result, you may believe that you should use a regular toothbrush with hard bristles to brush them before soaking them overnight.
However, unlike the strong enamel of natural teeth, the surface of your dentures can scratch easily if proper care is not taken. If you use a regular medium- to hard-bristle toothbrush, it can dig deep into the surface, creating spaces where food, plaque, and bacteria can build up.
Instead of using your old toothbrush, opt for one that is specifically designed for dentures. The bristles typically have a softer texture and more give in them than ones designed for natural teeth. If you are unsure about which one to choose, ask your dentist for their recommendation.
Using Toothpicks
When you had your natural teeth, you may have been in the habit of using a toothpick after eating to clean out any food that was stuck between them. Since your dentures look and act like your own teeth, you may be under the impression that you can continue to do so.
However, you should never use a toothpick on your dentures. Unlike your real teeth, there is no give in the gums and the dentures are not rooted deep within the tissues. If you use a toothpick in the wrong place, it can act like a pry bar and pop the tooth out.
Instead of using a toothpick, take your dentures out and use dental floss. However, you should be careful while using the floss as well. If you use the dental floss as you would with natural teeth by placing it snugly against the plate's gum line and pull up next to the tooth, you could rip it out. Instead, push the floss down into the space, wiggle it until you have dislodged the food, then slide it out horizontally.
Avoiding the above mistakes while taking care of your dentures can help them last longer by keeping them damage-free. Contact a dental clinic like Cape Dental Care for more information about cleaning your dentures or to discuss any concerns or issues you run into.
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