HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR DENTURES

Implants or dentures can increase the places where food debris can become lodged. This can promote the formation of dental plaque and bad breath, and soften gums. Therefore, careful maintenance and thorough cleaning is important.

Dental restorations

When replacing a tooth, an implant may be suggested. Throughout this process, good oral hygiene is essential to prevent infections. The restoration process works in two stages:

Stage 1: 
The dentist checks that the bone tissue where the implant is to be fixed is strong enough, after which a titanium root is implanted into the jawbone through the gum. It's necessary to wait several months to ensure that the body accepts the artificial root.

Stage 2:
If everything goes to plan, the gum is opened up again and a crown is screwed into the root.

» Tips on maintaining good oral hygiene 
» Oral care tips for seniors

Dentures

Dentures are used for a few reasons:

• To reinforce a loose tooth
• To replace one or more missing teeth

In particular, they allow older people to maintain a good chewing function. Fixed restorations (e.g. crowns or bridges) are fixed into existing teeth. They cover or rest on them to provide reinforcement. Partial or complete dentures replace existing teeth.

Keeping dentures clean

While there is no risk of cavities on a denture or restoration, dental plaque and tartar can develop on it and it can retain bacteria or food debris which will affect the healthy teeth or gums.

Attention to your oral hygiene is important when you wear a fixed restoration. Keep your mouth healthy by:

• Brushing and flossing regularly
• Using a daily mouthwash to clean the places that are hard to reach
• Visiting a dentist regularly, essential for prevention and treatment of oral care problems

If you wear a denture, brush it with a special denture toothbrush. Make sure that you clean both sides thoroughly so as not to leave any food debris behind and use a soft toothbrush to gently clean your gums. Finish cleaning your dentures by using a cleaning solution suitable for dentures.

Visit your dentist regularly to check the health of your mouth's soft tissue and a professional clean of your dentures.

» Why you should have regular dental check-ups
» Find a mouthwash to clean the hard to reach places