Dentures are the tried-and-true method for replacing missing teeth because they’re a versatile solution that offers many advantages. Whether you need a full or partial set, these prosthetics can be adapted to meet your unique needs. They restore your ability to eat and speak more normally, and today, they look more lifelike than ever, which can also boost your confidence.
However, you must care for your artificial teeth if you want to continue making the most of them. Many patients don’t realize that some of their habits could harm their dentures. Continue reading to learn about 3 things to avoid to keep them in excellent condition!
Bad Habit #1: Falling Asleep With Them In
Although it can take about a month for the muscles in your mouth to adjust to wearing dentures, once they do, you might grow so comfortable that you start to forget about them. If you’ve ever crawled into bed after a long, busy day without taking out your restoration, you’re not alone. It’s not uncommon for people to accidentally fall asleep with their dentures still in their mouths.
Unfortunately, doing so can detract from your dental health. Your gum tissue needs a break from the constant pressure of supporting your dentures. Without a reprieve, you could develop sores on your gums. Plus, if you’re not removing them to clean them every night, then you’re at an increased risk of developing gum disease.
Bad Habit #2: Biting Your Nails
Dentures are made up of a gum-colored acrylic base that contains the correct number of pontics, or artificial teeth, which are usually built out of ceramic. Although this material allows you to chew food and enunciate words, it’s possible to damage it if you’re not careful. You should avoid eating overly hard foods like nuts and seeds, as well as biting inanimate objects. If you tend to anxiously nibble your fingernails or pen caps, you could chip or crack your restoration. Leaving this habit in the past can help you avoid having to pay to repair or replace it.
Bad Habit #3: Not Wearing Them Daily
Although you probably shouldn’t wear your dentures 24/7, it is important to wear them at least daily. If you leave them on the bathroom counter overnight and don’t insert them the next day, they will dry out, causing the acrylic base to crack or warp. Even the slightest change in the shape could lead to ill-fitting dentures that won’t stay put. Furthermore, bacteria can penetrate any cracks or fractures to cause plaque buildup that can negatively affect your gums and jawbone.
You should remove your dentures to thoroughly brush and floss them twice daily and store them in a container of water or cleaning solution overnight to keep them clean and in shape!
About the Practice
At South Ridge Dental, Drs. Ryan and Steven Shaffer work together to offer a wide array of services to meet all your dental needs under one roof, including dentures. These brothers have years of experience handling everything from routine checkups to more complex procedures, so you know your oral health is in good hands. They combine a compassionate approach with a state-of-the-art facility to enhance patient comfort while increasing the accuracy of treatment results. If you’ve suffered tooth loss and are looking for replacements, you can request an appointment on the website or by calling (402) 423-1616.