Beyond Brushing: Advanced Techniques for Denture Maintenance

Summary:

Keeping dentures in top shape goes beyond just brushing. 

Advanced techniques like ultrasonic cleaners, specialized soaking solutions, and professional cleanings can make a big difference. 

Research conducted across 19 countries found that 19% of the population wears dentures, almost one in five. 

Thus, ultrasonic cleaners, which use sound waves to remove debris and adequately clean the dentures, are particularly effective in reducing bacteria by up to 99.9%. 

Additionally, soaking solutions can eliminate stains and odors, enhancing comfort and longevity. Regular professional cleanings are also crucial, as they can catch and fix problems early, ensuring your dentures stay fresh and functional.

But is that all? Interestingly not! 

Therefore, in this blog, we take a closer look at some advanced measures to keep your dentures clean via topics like: 

• Understanding Dentures.
• Why do People Need Dentures?
• Step-by-step procedure for getting dentures.
• Mastering Denture Maintenance: Advanced Methods.
• Tips To Handle Your Dentures with Care

Continue reading as we learn more about these topics in the following sections. 

Understanding Dentures

Dentures are artificial replacements for missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. They are not fixed, though, and can be removed and put back as needed. Although it might take some time to get used to them today’s dentures are more natural-looking and comfortable than ever.

There are two main types of dentures: 

Complete Dentures

As the name suggests, your dentist primarily suggests these dentures to replace missing teeth. 

Partial Dentures

These dentures are ideally preferred when some natural teeth are still intact. Partial dentures fill the spaces created by missing teeth and prevent other teeth from changing position.

Dentures are made from various materials, including acrylic resin, metal, and sometimes porcelain. The base of a denture, which is the part that looks like gum tissue, is usually made from acrylic and can be colored to match your natural gums. The teeth themselves are made from either resin or porcelain.

Why do People Need Dentures?

There is no shortage of reasons behind why a person might need dentures. Some of the best-known of these reasons include: 

1. Replacing Lost Teeth:

The most common reason people require dentures is to replace teeth that have been lost due to various factors, such as tooth decay, injury, or gum disease.

2. Improve Appearance and Confidence:

Missing teeth can change the shape of your face and make you look older. Dentures can help fill out the appearance of your face and profile and improve your smile, boosting your confidence.

3. Assist with Eating and Speaking:

Teeth play a crucial role in chewing food. Without them, eating becomes difficult and can lead to nutritional problems. Teeth are also important for proper pronunciation and speaking clearly. Your dentist for dentures in Huntingburg can help you navigate through such situations.

4. Support Facial Muscles:

Facial muscles can sag without teeth, making a person look older. Dentures can help maintain the structure of the face by supporting the cheeks and lips. 

Step-By-Step Procedure for Getting Dentures

The overall process of getting dentures is relatively simple when you access the right service from the right experts at Kelly Dental. So, here is a step-by-step process for getting dental dentures. 

1. Initial Consultation:

You’ll start with a visit to your dentist, who will check your teeth and gums, discuss your options, and take some X-rays. It’s all about figuring out the best plan for you.

2. Impressions:

Next up, they’ll take impressions of your mouth. Think of it like making a mold. This helps create dentures that fit just right.

3. Try-Ins:

After the impressions, you’ll have a few fittings with wax models of your dentures. This step ensures they fit comfortably and look good. Adjustments are made here.

4. Extractions (if needed):

If you have any remaining teeth that need to come out, your dentist will take care of them. Sometimes, this step happens earlier in the process.

5. Final Dentures:

Once everything is perfect, the final dentures are made. You’ll come in, and your dentist will fit them, ensuring they’re snug and comfy.

6. Adjustments:

After you get your dentures, there might be a few follow-up visits to tweak and adjust them as your mouth gets used to the new teeth.

Mastering Denture Maintenance: Advanced Methods

Beyond the basics, a world of advanced denture maintenance techniques can make your life easier and your smile even brighter.

All right, we all know the drill—clean your dentures daily. But did you know there’s more to it than just a quick brush? Even with daily cleaning, dentures need a deeper clean to stay fresh and free from buildup.

1.Ultrasonic Cleaners:

These handy devices remove stubborn debris and plaque using sound waves. Place your dentures in the machine with some cleaning solution and let it do the work.

2.Vinegar Soak:

Once a week, soak your dentures in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water for about 30 minutes. This helps dissolve tartar and keeps them fresh.

3.Baking Soda Scrub:

Use a baking soda and water paste for a gentle yet effective clean. This can help remove stains and neutralize odors.

Tips To Handle Your Dentures with Care

Dentures are delicate, and a little care goes a long way in enhancing their longevity. So, here are some essential tips to help you better care for your dental dentures.  

1. Avoid Dropping Your Appliance:

Clean your dentures over a folded towel or a sink filled with water. It cushions any accidental drops.

2. Say No to Harsh Chemicals:

Avoid bleach or harsh cleaners, which can weaken the material and cause discoloration.

3. Brush Gently:

Don’t scrub too hard. Gentle, circular motions are effective and prevent scratches.

Tips To Troubleshoot Common Denture Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned, so here are some ways to deal with common dentures-related issues. 

1. Stains:

For tough stains, use a commercial denture stain remover. Avoid using anything too abrasive.

2. Bad Breath:

Ensure you’re cleaning your dentures thoroughly. Bad breath often means bacteria buildup.

3. Sores:

If you develop sore spots, give your gums a break and wear your dentures less often until they heal. Consult your dentist if the problem persists.

Takeaway

• Research conducted across 19 countries found that 19% of the population, or almost one in five, wear dentures.
• People generally need dental dentures to replace lost teeth, improve appearance and confidence, assist with eating and speaking, and support facial muscles. 
• Six steps are needed to get dental dentures, starting with the initial appointment and ending with the final adjustments. 
• Soaking solutions can eliminate stains and odors, enhancing dentures’ comfort and longevity. Regular professional cleanings are also crucial, as they can catch and fix problems early, ensuring dentures stay fresh and functional.
• Some ways to care for your dentures are to avoid harsh chemicals, brush gently, and ensure the denture doesn’t fall. 
• Still worried about the different techniques of denture maintenance? Let our experts at Kelly Family Dentistry help you today!