Your Complete Guide to Denture Care
02
Dec
2023

Posted by:
Agnieszka Milbauer

At Your Perfect Smile Dental & Implant Clinic, we understand the importance of getting dentures and caring for them to ensure a long-lasting, confident smile. Whether you’re new to dentures or looking for ways to improve your denture-wearing experience, this comprehensive guide is here to help you adjust comfortably and maintain the longevity of your dentures.

Denture Care:

Getting used to dentures can take time, but you’ll smile confidently with the right care and patience. Here are some essential denture care tips:

  1. Start Slowly: Start by eating softer foods and gradually introducing harder textures as you become more accustomed to your dentures.
  2. Practice Speaking: Don’t be discouraged if you experience speech challenges initially. Reading aloud or having conversations can help improve your speech with dentures.
  3. Proper Cleaning: Maintain good oral hygiene by cleaning your dentures daily with a denture brush and mild soap. Remember to remove them at night to give your gums a break.
  4. Regular Check-Ups: Schedule follow-up appointments with us as recommended. We can ensure your dentures continue to fit perfectly and make any necessary adjustments.
  5. Adhesive Use: Discuss denture adhesives with our team if necessary. We can provide guidance on their proper use.
  6. Stay Hydrated: Drinking daily water can help prevent dry mouth and discomfort.
  7. Be Patient: Adjusting to dentures takes time, and it’s normal to experience some initial discomfort. If you have concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Foods to Avoid Due to Hardness:

While dentures are designed to be sturdy, they can be susceptible to damage if not treated with care. Here are some foods to be cautious about:

  1. Hard Candies: Avoid hard candies and lollipops, as biting into them can exert excessive force on your dentures.
  2. Ice Cubes: Chewing on ice cubes is a common cause of denture fractures. Enjoy chilled drinks without the temptation to crunch the ice.
  3. Popcorn Kernels: Unpopped kernels can be especially tough on dentures. Be cautious when eating popcorn or consider alternatives like popped corn.
  4. Nuts: Whole nuts, like almonds or walnuts, can be challenging to chew and may increase the risk of denture damage. Opt for nut butter or finely chopped nuts if you enjoy their flavours.
  5. Crusty Breads: Very hard or crusty bread, like baguettes, can put significant pressure on your dentures. Choose softer bread varieties instead.

Foods to Avoid Due to Staining:

Maintaining the appearance of your dentures is essential for a bright, confident smile. Here are foods and drinks that can potentially stain your dentures over time:

  1. Coffee and Tea: Dark-colored beverages like coffee and tea can cause staining. Consider drinking through a straw or rinsing your mouth after consumption.
  2. Red Wine: Red wine, with its rich color, can also contribute to staining. Enjoy it in moderation, and rinse your mouth afterward.
  3. Tomato Sauces: Tomato-based sauces, such as pasta sauce and ketchup, contain pigments that may stain dentures. Clean your dentures promptly after consuming these foods.
  4. Berries: Berries like blueberries and blackberries are delicious but can stain. Rinse or clean your dentures soon after enjoying them.

Tobacco and Cigarettes:

In addition to food and drink, lifestyle choices can impact the condition of your dentures. Smoking cigarettes and using tobacco products not only pose health risks but can also lead to severe staining of your dentures. Tar and nicotine can quickly discolor the acrylic material of your dentures. Chewing tobacco is equally harmful, as it can cause unsightly stains and odors.

We strongly advise quitting smoking or tobacco use for the sake of your oral health and the appearance of your dentures. Not only will this benefit your smile, but it will also have positive effects on your overall well-being.

 

Remember that maintaining a diligent oral hygiene routine, which includes cleaning your dentures and visiting our clinic regularly for check-ups, will help minimize staining and keep your dentures looking their best.

If you have any questions or concerns about the care of your dentures or would like assistance with quitting smoking, please feel free to reach out to us. We are here to provide guidance and support to ensure your smile remains beautiful and vibrant. You can also read our past blog on dentures here.

Wishing you a wonderful day and a bright, beautiful smile!