Dentures are a good replacement option for lost teeth. Although these devices are strong, they can sustain damage if you fail to maintain them properly. You need to do more than just brushing to care for your dentures. Read on to learn about the best care tips for your dentures. 

Clean Your Dentures Daily

Just like regular teeth, dentures also need cleaning. Failure to do so can cause tartar, plaque, and bacteria to accumulate on the dentures and result in gum diseases. 

To clean your dentures properly, gently pull them out of your mouth. First, you should rinse them in warm water to wash off all food particles. Then, clean the dentures with a soft-bristled brush and denture-specific paste or mild soap. 

This step removes stubborn food particles, plaque, and bacteria from the surface. Note that you should never use bleaching detergents as they are too abrasive and might weaken your dentures. Bleaching products can also scratch your dentures or discolour them. 

As a rule of thumb, you should brush your dentures at least twice daily to keep them in perfect shape. Before you sleep, soak the dentures overnight in warm water or a denture cleanser. This strategy keeps your dentures moist because they can warp when they dry out.  

Use the Right Adhesive

Your dentures should fit comfortably in your mouth. Without a good fit, food particles can stick between spaces and eventually create a foul breath. Ill-fitting dentures also cause pain and sores. 

For a better fit, you can use adhesives. A dental adhesive is a non-toxic, water-soluble substance that you can apply between the dentures and the gums to secure your prosthetic device in place. 

An adhesive seals all gaps that food particles can lodge into. With a dental adhesive, your dentures will not slip out, so you can chew and speak comfortably. Some dentures also contain antibacterial qualities that improve your breath.

If you experience allergic reactions after using a dental adhesive, you should stop using it immediately. Also, check if your adhesive contains zinc. Prolonged use of a zinc-based adhesive exposes you to zinc toxicity and health issues, such as nerve damage and numbness. 

Seek professional guidance on the right adhesive to use. Alternatively, you can opt for implant dentures so you won't need dental adhesive to secure your prosthetic. 

Proper denture care not only keeps you smiling but also increases your denture's life. Don't forget to go for regular dental checkups and professional cleaning of your dentures for a better overall experience. 

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