Our Greensburg Dentist Guides You in Maintaining Your Custom Dentures

Dentures are an excellent option for replacing teeth. Dentures are custom-made to fit the oral cavity and serve as replacements for missing teeth, restoring both function and appearance. Practicing correct denture care, including a thorough daily cleaning routine, is essential for maintaining excellent oral health and ensuring the longevity of your appliance. However, without proper maintenance, they can become uncomfortable and ill-fitting, causing damage to your gums and any remaining teeth. Make sure to follow the denture care instructions given to you by our dentist, ensuring your dentures stay in great shape and last as long as possible.

Explore how to take care of your dentures. Contact one of the best dentists in Greensburg by calling (724) 836-2433 to schedule a consultation. We also proudly serve patients coming from Irwin, Latrobe, and Jeannette.

How to Maintain and Perform Denture Cleaning

Proper maintenance of dentures is essential for their longevity and to ensure they continue to function properly. Cleaning dentures daily is crucial to prevent plaque buildup, oral infections, and to maintain overall oral health. Different denture types, such as flexible dentures, and the material of the denture base may require specific cleaning and care routines to ensure durability and hygiene. Dr. Kovacevic recommends doing the following to properly care for your dentures.

Clean Dentures Daily

Dentures should be cleaned daily as part of an essential daily cleaning routine to remove food particles, prevent the buildup of bacteria, and ensure dentures remain clean. After every meal, rinse your dentures under cool or lukewarm water to remove food debris—never use hot or boiling water, as it can warp the plastic. Always handle your dentures over a soft towel or a sink filled with water to cushion them in case of a drop.

Handle With Care

Dentures are delicate and can be easily damaged if handled roughly. When cleaning them, be sure to handle your dentures gently to avoid scratching, damaging, or breaking them. Clean your dentures over a soft towel or a sink filled with water to cushion accidental drops and prevent breakage. Avoid using hot or boiling water, as it can warp or damage your dentures—always use lukewarm or cool water instead.

Soak Them Overnight

Soak the dentures overnight in water or a denture-soaking solution to help remove bacteria and keep them clean. Placing dentures in water or a denture cleaning solution overnight maintains their shape, prevents warping, and ensures cleanliness. Removing dentures at night allows your gums and tissues to rest, which helps prevent oral infections. However, make sure you follow instructions for soaking dentures and never use hot water, as it can cause your dentures to warp.

Store Them Properly

Dentures should be placed in water or a denture cleaning solution when not in use to prevent them from drying out or warping. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper storage to maintain the fit and longevity of your dentures. Make sure the container has a lid and is placed in a safe location where it won’t be accidentally dropped or knocked over.

Repair or Use Denture Adhesives When Needed

If a denture is damaged or not fitting properly, visit our Greensburg dentist to have it repaired. If you try to fix broken dentures yourself, it can cause further damage and potentially render the denture unusable.

Keep Your Mouth Clean for Better Oral Health

Just because you have dentures doesn’t mean you should neglect your oral hygiene. Brush your gums, tongue, and remaining natural teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day. This will help prevent gum disease and other oral health problems that weaken dentures.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health, even if you have dentures. Our dentist can check your dentures for any signs of wear or damage, as well as examine your gums and remaining natural teeth. We may also recommend adjustments or replacements if necessary.

When to Replace Your Dentures

Knowing when it’s time to replace your dentures is crucial for maintaining your oral health and comfort. Common signs that your dentures need replacement include:

• Visible Wear: Check for signs of wear and tear, including cracks, chips, or worn-down teeth. These can impact both the function and appearance of your dentures.
• Loose Fit: If your dentures no longer fit snugly or comfortably, it may be time for a replacement. An ill-fitting denture can lead to sore spots and difficulties with eating and speaking.
• Discomfort or Irritation: If you experience persistent discomfort, soreness, or irritation while wearing your dentures, consult your dentist. This could be due to changes in your mouth or the condition of your dentures.
• Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: Difficulty in chewing or speaking, even after adjustments, may indicate that your dentures are no longer effective.

Dentures typically need replacement every 5 to 7 years as jawbone and gum tissue change shape over time. When you receive a new denture, it may feel different at first, but most patients adapt with time and professional guidance from their dental team.

If you’re experiencing any of the problems mentioned above, contact our dentist in Greenburg today at (724) 836-2433 to schedule an appointment. We’ll examine your dentures and recommend the best course of action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular toothpaste to clean my dentures?

No, it’s not recommended to use regular toothpaste to clean your dentures. Regular toothpaste can be abrasive and damage the surface of the dentures, causing scratches and creating places where bacteria can accumulate. Instead, denture wearers should use a cleaner specifically designed for dentures, which is gentler and more effective in removing stains, bacteria, and food particles from the denture surface.

Can dentures break?

Yes, dentures can break if dropped or mishandled. Dentures are made of acrylic resin, which is a hard but brittle material that can fracture or crack under pressure. If your dentures do break, don’t attempt to repair them yourself, as it may cause further damage. 

How do I prevent my dentures from becoming stained?

To prevent your dentures from becoming stained, you should avoid drinking dark-colored liquids like coffee, tea, red wine, and fruit juices. You should also avoid smoking, as it can cause discoloration and stains on your dentures.

Visit Dr. Del Kovacevic for a Long-Lasting Smile

At Dr. Del Kovacevic Cosmetic, Family & Implant Dentistry, we believe that denture care is essential to ensuring optimal oral health and quality of life for our patients. We recommend that patients clean their dentures regularly, avoid staining foods and beverages, and visit our office at least once a year for a checkup and adjustment. 

Let our Greensburg dental practice complete your smile with dentures! Contact our dental office near you by calling (724) 836-2433. We also proudly serve patients coming from Irwin, Latrobe, and Jeannette.