Dentures

Denture is a removable plate or frame holding one or more artificial teeth. They can be completes or partials depending on which teeth you are missing.

To keep your dentures fresh, clean and effective, it is important that you get into a simple daily routine. This will help support a healthy mouth, avoid embarrassing mouth odour and prolong the life of your dentures.

Care of your dentures

The general rule is: brush, soak, brush. Always clean your dentures over a bowl of water or a folded towel in case you drop them. Brush your dentures before soaking, to help remove any food debris. Using an effervescent (fizzy) denture cleaner can help remove stubborn stains and leave your denture feeling fresher. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Then brush the dentures again, as you would your own teeth, being careful not to scrub too hard as this may cause grooves in the surface. Use a soft toothbrush and either toothpaste or denture cream. Make sure you clean all the surfaces of the dentures, including the surface that touches your gums. Unless your dentist advises otherwise, you should leave your dentures out at night in clean, cold water.

Care of Your Mouth

It is very important that you clean your mouth, gums and any remaining teeth thoroughly twice a day. Do this after you remove your dentures at night, and before you insert you them in the morning.

What next?

It will take even experienced denture wearers some time to adjust to new dentures, both with speech and eating. If you have any continuing soreness, ulceration, or undue difficulties please return to the practice. Most problems are easily corrected.

Your dentist will have recommended to you when you should return for a check up. This is important to ensure your mouth remains healthy.

How long will my dentures last?

Dentures need replacement when the teeth become too worn or the fit to your gum becomes poor. How long this will be varies enormously, but is usually in 5-10 years.