How to Care for New Dentures
New dentures can take some getting used to, especially if it's your first set. In the meantime there's a certain level of care needed to keep them up to par. It's not too bad unless you're elderly and can't remember to do it or how to do it. It's also a problem if you have physical disabilities and cannot do it.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
New dentures can be a blessing or a curse depending on how well they were made. I do not wear dentures, but I do take care of my mother's, since she cannot do it herself due to a stroke. The dentures have become more of a problem as she ages due to bone loss and gum's receding. This is a never ending battle, since it will continue to occur.
It will be more difficult to get used to dentures for the first time than it to just get another set made. Either way the care is the same unless they don't fit properly then you may need to use denture liners, adhesive or both. It's a good idea to have both available for the sake of convenience.
-
2
Denture adhesive can be applied quickly and easily, whereas, denture liners take time and focus to align properly. If you have both then you can alternate the two or combine them until you see the dentist. This way you can chew easier and feel secure that the teeth aren't going to fall out.
If you have physical limitations someone may need to do the denture liner for you, since it is not easy to apply. However, once done it makes dentures fit much better. A liner may last for 3-4 weeks depending on care do not soak and when you brush do it gently around the denture liner.
-
-
3
After each meal remove new dentures and rinse with lukewarm water not hot. It's also a good idea to use mouthwash since dental hygiene is of utmost importance. They should be brushed daily, but if they cannot be brushed due to physical limitation then soak in Efferdent or another dental cleanser of your choosing.
For all of you who have elderly parents/grandparents you need to check and brush dentures when you visit if they cannot do it. This will help prevent gum disease and keep plaque from accumulating.
-
4
There will be soreness and discomfort at first, so you may need to massage gum's or remove new dentures to give gum's a rest. In addition, you should also soak them over night in cleanser or lukewarm water and always use gloves when handling dentures.
In time you will need to do a hard reline this is not the same as the soft liner kit, which you can do yourself. Instead the dentures are taken to a lab where they change their shape to conform to the new contours of your mouth.
For instructions to apply and use denture liners see resources below.
-
1
Resources
- Photo Credit Flickr.com
