Dentures are a fantastic solution for individuals who have lost some or all of their natural teeth, offering a way to restore function, improve appearance, and maintain oral health. However, like any dental appliance, dentures require proper care and maintenance to ensure they last for years and provide optimal comfort. Without proper attention, dentures can become uncomfortable, lose their fit, or even contribute to oral health problems. This is avoidable and here, we shall provide practical care tips that will help you maintain your dentures for long-lasting comfort.

1. Clean your dentures daily

Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned regularly to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. Cleaning them properly will not only keep them looking their best but also help prevent bad breath and gum irritation.

Tips to clean dentures

• Rinse after every meal – After eating, remove your dentures and rinse them under lukewarm water to remove any leftover food debris.
• Brush with a soft brush – Use a soft-bristled denture brush (or a soft toothbrush) and a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and may scratch the surface of your dentures.
• Soak overnight – Most dentures benefit from soaking in a denture solution or lukewarm water overnight. This helps prevent them from drying out and losing their shape.

Avoid using hot water for cleaning, as it can warp your dentures, affecting their fit and comfort.

2. Handle your dentures with care

Dentures are delicate, and they can crack or break if mishandled. It’s important to be gentle when inserting, removing, or cleaning them. You can do this by:

• Removing the dentures carefully – When removing your dentures, do so gently to avoid bending or breaking them. If necessary, use both hands to support the dentures and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on them.
• Place a towel or soft cloth – When cleaning your dentures, place a towel or soft cloth in the sink to cushion them in case they slip from your hands.

Tip: Avoid dropping your dentures, as even a small fall can cause damage.

3. Keep your dentures moist

Dentures can dry out and lose their shape if left out of the mouth for extended periods. It’s essential to keep them moist when you’re not wearing them. Some precautions to take are:

• Soak them overnight – Always store your dentures in a container of water or a denture solution when you’re not wearing them. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from drying out.
• Avoid storing in hot water – Hot water can warp dentures, so always use lukewarm water or a denture-specific solution for soaking.

Tip: If you don’t soak your dentures overnight, they may become brittle, affecting their fit and comfort.

4. Regularly visit your dentist

Even though dentures are custom-made for your mouth, they are not permanent, and they may need adjustments over time. Changes in your gums and jawbone can affect the fit of your dentures, leading to discomfort or even slippage.

Why dental visits matter

• Fit and comfort – Over time, your gums and jawbone may change, affecting how your dentures fit. Regular dental visits can help detect any fit issues early and allow for adjustments.
• Professional cleaning – Your dentist can also professionally clean your dentures, removing stubborn plaque and tartar buildup that regular cleaning might not address.
• Examine for damage – Your dentist can also check for signs of wear and tear and make necessary repairs to ensure your dentures are in good condition.

Tip: Aim to visit your dentist at least once a year, or more frequently if you experience discomfort or notice changes in your denture fit.

5. Maintain your oral hygiene

Even if you wear dentures, it’s important to maintain the health of your gums and any remaining natural teeth. Proper oral hygiene can prevent irritation, infections, and discomfort associated with wearing dentures.

How to maintain oral health:

• Brush your gums and tongue – Before putting your dentures in each morning, brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush. This helps remove plaque and stimulate blood flow to the gums.
• Clean your natural teeth – If you still have natural teeth, brush and floss them daily to prevent cavities and gum disease.
• Use an antimicrobial rinse – Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth and keep your gums healthy.

Tip: Taking care of your gums and any remaining natural teeth is key to keeping your dentures comfortable and avoiding complications like irritation or infections.

6. Avoid staining foods and drinks

Certain foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries, can stain your dentures over time. While dentures are resistant to stains, they can still become discoloured with prolonged exposure to staining agents.

How to prevent staining

• Drink water between beverages -To reduce staining, try drinking water after consuming beverages like coffee or wine. This helps rinse your mouth and prevent staining.
• Limit staining foods – Try to avoid excessive consumption of foods that can stain your dentures, or at least rinse your mouth immediately afterwards.
• Brush after eating – Brush your dentures after eating to remove any food particles or staining agents before they have a chance to settle.

Tip: If your dentures do become stained, your dentist can help remove the stains through professional cleaning or provide tips on how to keep them looking fresh.

Take away notes.

Caring for your dentures properly is essential to ensure long-lasting comfort, function, and appearance. Choosing a dental care professional to help you with your dentures is also a key aspect of taking care of them. At Nairobi Sterling Dental Clinic, we have dental experts with years of experience in dental practices. Their expertise and knowledge will help you get the best from your dentures and offer insights on how to take care of them. Visit us at our clinic, at the Park Suites Building in Parklands today, and let us help transform your dental health. You can also contact us for enquiries or book an appointment for consultations with our dentists.