Salt Lake City, UT dentist provides tips on proper denture care
Dentures can dramatically change your life for the better in many ways after tooth loss – they restore your teeth’s appearance and function, enabling you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence again. At Cannon Dental, we want our patients in the Salt Lake City, Bountiful, West Valley, Holladay, and surrounding UT communities to have the best possible experience with their denture, both during the adjustment phase shortly after getting them and in the long-term. Below, Dr. David Cannon provides tips on proper denture care so you can prolong the life of your denture, protect your investment, and enjoy your life without complications or discomfort from your denture.
Cleaning your denture
One of the most important aspects of denture care is cleaning them routinely with the proper technique. Knowing the best way to clean a denture will help you preserve their shape and function, as well as avoid the need for more frequent adjustments and repairs than are typically necessary.
- Dentures will warp if they are placed in hot water, so always ensure that you use water that is cool or room temperature
- Brush both the inside and outside of your denture every day with a large, soft-bristled nylon denture brush
- Never use toothpaste on your denture, as it is too abrasive and can scratch the surface; instead, use denture creams specifically designed for cleaning dentures and then rinse your denture with cold water
- When you are not using your dentures, store them in water or a denture soaking solution so they do not dry out
Maintaining a comfortable fit
Your gums and bone structure will naturally change shape over time after tooth loss. Because of this, it is typically necessary to have your dentures relined every two years so that they have the best possible fit. If your dentures are loose or do not fit properly, they will cause sores and irritation, and are more likely to slip.
- See Dr. Cannon for regular check-ups, he will evaluate the fit and wear of your dentures to determine if any adjustments are necessary
- You should inspect your dentures regularly at home to see if there is any uneven wear and tear or if they have become stained
- When you visit Dr. Cannon, be sure to inform him of any changes in your medical history, as certain medical conditions and medications can lead to changes in your oral health and mouth shape that can alter the way your denture fits
- If your dentures feel loose, call us for an appointment so we can adjust them before they cause unnecessary pain and pressure on your gums and bone
At Cannon Dental, your comfort and quality of life are important to us, and we are here every step of the way to help you have a great experience with your denture. We will work with your insurance company to determine your benefits so you can minimize your out-of-pocket costs, including determining how frequently your insurance covers new dentures (typically every five years).
To schedule an appointment for a check-up and denture maintenance or ask questions about your new denture care, call Cannon Dental today at (801) 406-9985!
