Dentures are a popular and effective non-permanent solution to help restore a person’s smile and confidence. However, having dentures comes with its own set of responsibilities to maintain good oral health and keep them looking great. If you have dentures or are planning to get dentures, review the most important things to avoid doing with dentures. When maintaining dentures, it is crucial to be careful and attentive to their specific needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced dentist office in Gainesville, FL, and learn more about our denture treatment options.

Avoid Sharp Objects & Abrasive Cleaning

Avoiding sharp objects or abrasive cleaning materials is paramount to ensuring they remain in good condition and last for a long time. Using items like toothpicks or dental scrapers could easily slip and damage the soft tissue in your mouth, leading to discomfort and infection. Similarly, brushes with stiff bristles or harsh toothpaste will scratch and wear down your denture’s surface, making them more prone to stains and bacteria growth.

Avoid Your Dentures From Drying Out

One of the most significant problems associated with dentures is dryness. Dry dentures can lead to undesirable issues, such as discomfort, brittleness, and contamination. To prevent your dentures from drying out, keep them moist by soaking them in water or a denture cleanser when you are not wearing them. You should never wash them with hot water as it can cause distortion and damage to the denture. Moisture helps keep dentures pliable, making them more comfortable to wear. Furthermore, when dentures dry out, they are more susceptible to contamination, which can harm oral health. Therefore, to keep your dentures clean and hygienic, it is crucial to soak them in a cleaning solution or water at night.

Avoid Foods That Aren’t Denture-Friendly

Certain foods can cause damage to your dentures, making it important to avoid the ones that aren’t denture-friendly. By avoiding the following foods, you can extend the lifespan of your dentures and avoid any unnecessary pain or discomfort.

  • Hard foods: Anything that requires much chewing or could crack your dentures should be avoided.
  •  This includes things like hard candy, ice, and even some raw fruits and vegetables.
  • Sticky foods: Avoid things like gum, candy, caramel, and other sticky snacks.
  • Tough meats: Steer clear of meat that is hard to chew, such as beef jerky, as it can cause your dentures to slip around.
  • Popcorn: The small kernels can easily get lodged under your dentures, causing irritation and discomfort.
  • Nuts: They can be difficult to chew and may cause your dentures to shift around.

Avoid Missing Dentist Appointments

It is critical for denture wearers to regularly visit their dentist every six months to avoid missing potentially serious oral health issues. Skipping dental appointments may lead to complications, such as gum inflammation and mouth sores. With regular visits, your dentist can assist in maintaining the proper fit of your dentures, making sure they remain comfortable and secure. Moreover, your dentist can provide guidance on proper oral hygiene routines to keep your dentures and gums clean and healthy.