As we get older suddenly we realised many things we didn't appreciate about being young - being fit, having smooth skin and having all your own teeth. As our loose teeth (and bridges) struggle to deal with chewier food we start eating bland mush and, there is no easy way to say this, OLD PEOPLE FOOD. I'm determined not to let that happen to me and I'm doing everything I can to keep my own teeth as long as possible, and when that's not possible to get the best possible teeth replacement. If you are like me and want to keep on eating whatever you want, I think you'll like my site. It's all about dental health and teeth replacement & maintenance.
Keeping your teeth young
Tips to Caring for and Maintaining Your Partial Dentures
Mabel Hicks
Partial dentures refer to removable dental appliances that are used to cover a few missing teeth, rather than having to get a full set of dentures. They can be attached using several different methods. The most common option is the use of metallic clasps that attach to the teeth directly adjacent to the gap in your mouth. Another technique your dentist can employ is the use of precision attachments. These precision attachments are the most discreet option; as such, they tend to be more expensive than using metallic clasps. No matter your choice of attachment, you would still have to take your dentures out from time to time to clean them. The following are some tips to caring for and maintaining your partial dentures.
Fill the sink with water
When cleaning your partial dentures, ensue that you fill the sink you will be standing over with water. This water will prevent your dentures from cracking or breaking in case they fall while you are cleaning them. Your partial dentures should be cleaned on a daily basis to ensure that food particles and other types of deposits such as plaque are not accumulating on your dentures.
Always use a denture cleaning brush
One mistake some people make when they start wearing partial dentures is assuming the best type of brush to use would be a hard-bristled brush. Contrary to this, hard-bristled toothbrushes have a higher propensity of damaging the surface of your dentures by abrading the composite material that they are made out of. Instead, it is prudent to invest in a denture brush as its bristles are specifically designed to clean the surfaces of your dentures. In the event you cannot get your hands on a denture brush or lose yours, only clean the partial dentures using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Always use denture cleaner
When cleaning your partial dentures, only use the prescribed denture cleaner. If you are out of denture cleaner, do not consider using detergent or toothpaste in its place. Using some kinds of toothpastes or household cleaners could cause abrasion on the surface of your dentures. Instead, use a salt-water solution to clean your dentures as you wait to replenish your denture cleaning supply.
Always keep your dentures moistened
When not using your partial dentures, it is prudent to keep them moistened. Without adequate moisture, the dentures may begin to lose their shape. Some people overlook this assuming that their dentures will be just fine sitting out in the air when not in use. This will result in ill-fitting dentures and could increase the chances of damaging the dentures when chewing. To keep them moistened, soak the dentures overnight in either some water or a soaking solution that has been prescribed by your dentist.
Share