Preventing Bacteria Buildup on Dentures

In some form, dentures have been around for centuries. This type of artificial teeth has helped countless people feel good about their appearance and eat most foods again.

If you have missing teeth or no teeth at all, talk to your dentist about this option. You can learn what this process entails and how it can benefit you. There are also some important care and maintenance guidelines to prevent the appliance from wearing out.

A description of dentures and their purpose

Today, dentures consist of a gum-colored acrylic base and artificial teeth made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal. Depending on needs and how much tooth loss there is, patients can have a full set or partial ones. This treatment eliminates embarrassing gaps in the mouth, helping people feel positive about being in social settings. It is also much less challenging to eat a healthy diet and eat a wider range of meals.

Rinse often

People with dentures enjoy this flexibility because of the ability to rinse them off frequently. This is especially helpful after meals to help prevent food particles from sticking to the artificial teeth or the base. Rinsing the appliance under warm water for 30 to 60 seconds can keep bacteria from forming. Be cautious when rinsing the apparatus, though, so it does not fall into the sink or onto the hard ground.

Brushing the appliance

Poor oral hygiene is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Failure to brush dentures can pose problems for the appliance too. At least twice a day, people who wear the apparatus should brush it with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride-based toothpaste. Make sure the toothpaste is not abrasive either. Regular brushing will help to keep bacteria from accumulating. This will help to ensure the appliance smells good and does not start to discolor.

Daily soaking

Another effective way to reduce or eliminate the buildup of bacteria is to soak the dentures in a solution. This should occur overnight while the person is asleep. The dentist can recommend a good solution. Doing this consistently can thoroughly clean the device. Make sure not to place the appliance in hot water, as this can warp it and change its shape.

Visit the dentist

Going to the dentist’s office at least twice a year will also help to maintain dentures. This practice is just as critical for patients who have a full set of teeth as for those who are missing some or all of them. The dentist can examine the appliance and check for bacteria or any other problems. The dentist may also give the patient hints on how to improve cleaning techniques of the dentures.

Get the most out of your treatment

You invest a lot in replacing your teeth. The last thing you want to do is waste the opportunity by wearing out or damaging your dentures. Daily rinsing, brushing, and soaking are essential. If you follow these guidelines, you can have a natural-looking solution to your missing teeth.

Request an appointment or call Phoenix Family Dentistry at 602-547-9007 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.