Avoid These 3 Mistakes When Caring For Your Dentures
Whether you've recently received full or partial dentures, knowing how to take care of them is key. After all, dentures aren't cheap; with the cost of full dentures ranging from about $1,300 to $3,200, you'll want to properly maintain yours to avoid unnecessary repair or replacement costs.
Above all else, be sure to follow the care instructions provided to you by your dentist. Along with those, however, there are a few common mistakes you'll want to avoid when it comes to caring for your new dentures.
Using an Abrasive Toothpaste
It is important to brush and even floss your dentures just as you would your real teeth. However, when selecting a toothpaste to use on your dentures, you'll want to make sure it doesn't contain any abrasive ingredients. Baking soda is an example of a popular yet abrasive ingredient found in some kinds of toothpaste. Why should this be avoided? Because abrasives can create surface scratches on your dentures, which can make them more prone to staining and other damage over time.
Ideally, you should use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush to clean your dentures thoroughly yet carefully each night.
Failing to Soak Them Overnight
After you've brushed your dentures, you should also make sure to soak them overnight in a solution specifically made for cleaning dentures. This is the best way to protect against the buildup of harmful bacteria. When soaking your dentures, be sure that they are completely immersed in the liquid so that no part of your dentures can dry out completely. It is important to keep dentures wet so as to prevent warping, which can affect the way they fit in your mouth.
Bleaching Your Dentures
If your dentures become discolored over time, you might be tempted to bleach or whiten them. Unfortunately, dentures are not able to be whitened in the same way that natural teeth can be. The best way to prevent discoloration or staining of your dentures is to simply stay away from foods and beverages that are known to cause staining. This includes drinks like coffee, tea, and wine. Some foods, such as berries, are also known to stain.
Making any of these mistakes when caring for your dentures can lead to costly and even unsightly issues down the road. The good news is that these common mistakes are very easy to avoid with a little foresight. From there, you can enjoy the beautiful smile that your dentures help you achieve for many years to come. For more information about taking care of dentures, reach out to a professional at a clinic like Sidney Dental Associates Inc.