Dentures need to be soaked overnight so that they retain their shape.
Dentures are a common solution for missing teeth, but they require some regular care and maintenance in order to stay looking and feeling their best. One important step is soaking them overnight in water or a denture cleaning solution. Here’s why it’s so important to do this regularly…
How do you take care of dentures?
If you choose to have dentures fitted, it is important to understand that they require regular care and maintenance in order to keep them clean and comfortable.
To keep your dentures in good condition for the long-term, it is essential that you soak them overnight. This will keep them moist and ensure that they don’t become brittle or warped. To maintain the shape of your dentures, simply place them in water or a specially-formulated denture solution every night when you go to bed. Speak to your dentist about which solution is best for your particular dentures.
Besides nightly soaking, there are a few other steps you should take to keep your dentures clean. This includes removing and rinsing them after eating; cleaning your mouth thoroughly after removing your dentures; and brushing your dentures at least once a day. It is also advisable that you see your dentist for regular check-ups, and that you see your dentist at the first sign of irritation, discomfort or infection.
What should you avoid?
When you soak, rinse or clean your dentures, it is important that you avoiding using very hot water. This is because extreme heat can cause damage to your dentures, and have a detrimental effect on their shape. Rather, stick to cold or lukewarm water.
It is also advisable that you avoid abrasive products when cleaning your dentures. Your dentist will recommend cleaning materials that are most appropriate for your dentures, and let you know how to use them properly.
There are a few foods to avoid whilst wearing dentures in order to prevent damage. These include foods that are particularly sticky such as peanut butter and sticky candy as these can get stuck underneath your dentures; hard foods like whole nuts, popcorn and apples that can apply uneven pressure and dislodge your dentures; tough meats that require a lot of chewing; and foods with small pieces that can get stuck, such as seeds and nuts. Rather stick to foods that are easy to eat — when your dentures are first fitted, you may find it helpful to eat soft foods like yoghurt, oatmeal and mashed vegetables, but as you adjust to your new dentures, you will be able to incorporate more and more nutritious and varied foods. If you need guidance when it comes to meeting your nutrition needs, be sure to speak to your dentist for advice and ideas.
How can we help?
At Murwillumbah Dental, we offer a range of restorative dentistry services, including dentures. If you would like to restore the form and function of your smile after tooth loss, you might consider dentures. The treatment is highly effective and can go a long way in improving one’s overall health.
We offer a number of types of dentures, including complete/full dentures; partial dentures; permanent dentures/implant supported dentures. If you would like to find out about these dentures and how they work, please have a look here.
If you are considering dentures but are not sure whether the treatment is right for you, we encourage you to come in and see us. We will explain the benefits of the treatment to you, as well as the details of the fitment process. Our team will address any questions or concerns that you have, and let you know how to clean and maintain your dentures once they have been placed.
To arrange an appointment to see us, please get in touch with us here or give us a call on (02) 6672 1068.