Denture and implant maintenance is not difficult, but it does require a certain level of commitment. If you neglect your dentures or implants, they won’t last long. Neglecting them will also have an impact on your general oral health and self-esteem. Implant and denture maintenance isn’t as simple as changing your clothes every day. It requires a little more effort. However, with the right information, you can easily achieve optimal results when it comes to keeping these devices clean and healthy. With the right home care routine and regular dental appointments, your dentures or implants can last for many years to come. In this article we look at how you can best maintain your dentures or implants to extend their longevity even further.
What is Denture and Implant Maintenance?
Denture and implant maintenance is the process of keeping your denture or implants healthy. This involves cleaning, disinfecting, and taking care of your mouth. Dentures are a removable replacement for teeth that are missing. Implants are devices that are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a foundation for artificial teeth to be anchored onto.
Brush your dentures or implants daily
Brushing your dentures or implants daily is one of the most important habits you can adopt. It will not only help to keep your device clean, it will also help to remove plaque and bacteria that builds up on the surface. Dentures and implants should be brushed with a soft-bristle toothbrush. You should brush in a circular motion, starting at the front of the denture or implant and moving around the entire surface. Then rinse with water and dry with a clean towel. It’s important to remember that this doesn’t need to be an arduous process as you can use a little bit of mouthwash or even water if you don’t have any mouthwash available.
Floss your dentures or implants daily
Many people neglect to floss their dentures or implants, and this might be the most common mistake they make. You should never neglect to do so because not only will this impact your oral health, but it will also make your dentures or implants vulnerable to stains and plaque. Basically, if you don’t clean your dentures or implants, they won’t last long. And that would be a pity as flossing them is really easy. You should clean your dentures or implants after every meal or snack and before going to bed. In order to achieve optimal results, you need to use a plastic brush with the bristles angled inwards towards the gums. Make sure you get all areas of the denture or implant before rinsing with water. Flossing them once a day is enough for maintaining them adequately, but if you can do it more than that that’s even better! Flossing your dentures or implants regularly will help keep them clean and free from food particles especially if you tend to put a lot of food in your mouth at one time (like many elderly people). It will also keep them fresh and free from bacteria.
Use an oral rinse once a day
Regularly using an oral rinse will help to keep your dentures or implants clean and fresh. You can use a store-bought product or make your own. Either way, you’ll want to use the rinse before brushing your teeth in the morning and at night. It’s important to note that some products may not be suitable for people with metal-based dental work; it’s always best to check with your dentist first.
Summary
of Denture and Implant Maintenance Dentures and implants require a little extra care. However, if you invest time in the upkeep of these devices, you will be rewarded with a mouth that is healthy and full of fresh teeth. Cleaning your dentures or implants at least twice per day is vital to ensuring they are free of debris. You should also take them out when eating so they can be cleaned properly. Denture brush cleaner is a great way to remove any bacteria that may have accumulated during the day. It’s important to visit the dentist regularly for dental checkups and cleaning appointments. Regular dental visits ensure your dentures or implants remain clean, healthy, and strong!
References:
1: Improving the oral health of older people: the approach of the WHO Global Oral Health Programme
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0528.2004.00219.x
2: Effect of toothbrush bristle stiffness and toothbrushing force on the abrasive dentine wear
https://doi.org/10.1111/idh.12536
