A partial denture is a huge investment in your oral health and it is important to know how to care for it properly. Just like with natural teeth, plaque and tartar can build up on your replacement teeth and if not regularly cleaned, this can lead to:
- An increased risk of gum disease
- Soft tissue inflammation
- Swelling, pain and ulceration
- Tooth decay
From daily maintenance to denture repairs, looking after your partial dentures will ensure that they fit better and last longer.
Tips for Looking After Your Partial Dentures
Caring for your partial dentures doesn’t take very long or require too much effort, but it is a habit that should be developed to keep them clean, free from stains and looking their best.
Day-to-day cleaning
- Brush your dentures daily using a soft toothbrush/denture brush
- Always use warm water, soap or denture paste. Regular toothpaste may damage the acrylic.
- Prior to cleaning your dentures, fill the sink with warm water or cover it with a towel as partial dentures may break if they hit a hard surface.
- Rinse your partial denture with warm water after each meal to remove food debris.
- Do not use hot water as this may alter the denture’s shape and cause it to not fit properly.
Cleaning instructions for sore spots
You may experience some sore spots in your mouth if the partial denture is putting too much pressure on a particular area. Your denturist will be able to make the correct adjustments and alleviate the pressure. If you are experiencing this, be sure to:
- Remove your partial dentures and rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Try not to wear your partial denture while the sore areas in your mouth are present.
Looking after your gum tissue
- Always keep your partial denture in water or a denture solution when you are not wearing it. This will keep it from becoming brittle and it will last longer.
- Remove your dentures before going to bed. Keeping them in at night will increase the risk of infection and discomfort.
- Use a very soft toothbrush and saltwater solution to clean the tissues inside your mouth including the tongue, lips, cheeks and roof of your mouth.
- A warm saltwater rinse every day will keep your gums clean and healthy.
Denture repair and maintenance
Over a period of time, you may find that the fit of your partial denture changes. This can be from your jaw bone shrinking or the loosening of the clasps from normal wear and tear.
Never attempt to repair your denture yourself. You could easily damage them and negatively affect how they fit you. At Future Smiles, we offer 3-6 months of FREE ADJUSTMENTS depending on the type of denture you choose.
During this time we will adjust your partial dentures as needed and provide any necessary aftercare to keep your gums and smile healthy.
Want to learn more?
For more information on partial denture care, contact our clinic today at (403) 475-0016.
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