If you have a new pair of dentures, you likely want to make sure they last as long as possible. But how long do dentures last? Well, that depends on how well you take care of them. With proper use, they can last ten years or more, but you’ll need to do your part. Here are some important tips to help you protect your new prosthetics and ensure that you get the most out of your new smile!
Proper Use
No matter how well you clean and maintain your dentures, if you don’t use them correctly, they won’t last long. Thus, be sure to only use them to chew food: never fingernails, pen caps, or to open stubborn packaging. Furthermore, avoid crunching anything too hard with them, such as ice cubes or hard candy. While your crowns are strong, they are not as strong as natural tooth enamel and were not made to break down anything that hard.
Cleaning Your Dentures
Another crucial element to making sure your dentures last as long as possible is how well you clean them. Be sure to remove them completely from your mouth and scrub them after each meal. Before you begin, experts recommend you fill your sink with water and line your countertop with a towel in case you drop them during cleaning. Then, gently brush the entire surface (gums and teeth) with a soft-bristled toothbrush, mild hand soap, or denture cleanser. Next, floss the teeth, and then rinse them well once you are complete.
If you plan to continue wearing them for the day, you can return them to your mouth, otherwise place them gently in a glass of water or denture soak until you’re ready to wear them again. Remember to remove and clean them every night before bed and soak them overnight. Do not sleep in your dentures after the first 24 hours of wear with your new pair. You can also spot-clean them while they’re in your mouth with a toothbrush, however this should not replace fully cleaning them after each meal.
Maintaining Your Dentures
Now that you know how to use and clean your dentures, you’ll want to make sure they get regular maintenance. Even if you have a full set, you should still visit your dentist twice a year for your biannual checkup and cleaning. At these appointments, in addition to checking the health of your mouth and any remaining teeth, your dentist can examine the condition of your prosthetics and make sure they are not damaged. He will ensure that your fit is still secure, and can even professionally clean them so they look as good as new. If you notice any changes in how they look or feel between dental appointments, don’t delay contacting your dentist. Often, minor damage can be fixed, but if left unrepaired for too long it can worsen to the point where they must be completely replaced.
Remember, how long your new dentures last depends on properly using, cleaning, and maintaining them. If you have any questions or concerns, or if you notice any damage, deep stains, foul odor, or fit changes, reach out to your dentist as soon as possible for assistance.
About Our Practice
At Mason Dental PC, Dr. Jonathan E. Mason and our skilled team of dentists and dental assistants want you to get the most out of your new smile. If it’s time for a new pair of dentures, or if your current pair could use some help, we’re proud to offer and care for these prosthetics right here in our Manchester office.
Dentures can help make daily activities like eating, speaking, and smiling a whole lot easier, and are an excellent solution for patients missing one or more teeth. If you’d like to learn more about dentures or to schedule a checkup for your current pair, please visit our website or call us today at 802-362-1099