Receiving dentures to replace missing teeth can be a transformational experience. The ability to eat, speak, and smile without worry or embarrassment makes it possible to enjoy life to the fullest. However, reverting to poor oral hygiene and lifestyle practices can put a patient’s new smile at risk of serious damage. Keep reading to discover how dentures can last longer if a person avoids these four bad habits.
Neglecting Daily Brushing
Although dentures cannot develop cavities like regular teeth, they must be cleaned daily to avoid bacterial accumulation. When a person neglects to brush their teeth (i.e., at least twice each day), the risk of bad breath and plaque building on dentures and natural tooth enamel increases. This results in the potential for gum disease, halitosis, and dental decay.
Dentures should be cleaned with a soft-bristled toothbrush, ideally, after every meal. It is best to avoid regular toothpaste, as it is highly abrasive and can scratch the materials. Once thoroughly brushed, one’s artificial teeth can enter a soaking solution overnight.
Avoiding the Dentist for Regular Checkups
It might seem futile to continue regular dental appointments after receiving dentures, but these visits are vital to the success of a longer-lasting smile. Without them, damage may go unnoticed, or ill-fitting dentures may lead to irritation and discomfort.
While a dentist will check for signs of common oral health problems, they’ll also examine a person’s existing denture(s) to determine if any damaged areas need to be addressed. It’s also possible that a denture may not fit well, and these checkups can provide the ideal time for an adjustment or reline.
Wearing Dentures While Sleeping
It is highly recommended that patients do not sleep in their dentures. The reason may not seem to make sense initially; however, continuing to wear these prosthetics overnight can become problematic.
Not only do a person’s gums and jawbone need time to breathe, rest, and retrieve vital nutrients that are lost throughout the day, but dentures require thorough soaking to remove any accumulated plaque and harmful particles. Also, a person’s chances of developing pneumonia go up if dentures are left in while sleeping. This is because moist places, such as between the denture and gums, can harbor bad bacteria, which can negatively affect a person’s overall health and well-being.
Chewing Gum
No matter the type of gum, it is best to avoid it altogether while wearing dentures. This sticky, chewy substance can dislodge an upper or lower prosthetic from its location, making it a cause for concern when around others.
Instead, it is best to reach for a mint or mouthwash if trying to get rid of bad breath.
Dentures are one of the most reliable tooth replacement solutions available, so make sure that they remain in place as long as possible by giving up one or all of these unhealthy habits.
About Grand Dental – Franklin Park
At Grand Dental – Franklin Park, tooth loss is a problem our team can fix with the help of customized dentures. We have a highly skilled and talented team of professionals who have the experience and training to deliver fully restored smiles to patients in need. If you are preparing to receive dentures but need help to avoid unhealthy habits that might put your new smile at risk, visit our website or call (847) 860-7093.