Dentures are a type of false teeth that you can use to restore the function of missing teeth. Depending on your situation, there are partial and complete dentures available. This means that if you are missing several or all of your teeth, you will still be able to smile and eat with a set of dentures.
Although dentures are not real teeth, you must still care for them appropriately. Plaque can still grow and develop on the surface of your dentures. If you don’t clean them properly, you can experience unwanted side effects. How you take care of your dentures can reflect your oral and overall health.
Poor Denture Care Effects
Poor denture care can cause several dental issues.
Gum Disease
Even if you don’t have any remaining teeth, it is still possible for you to develop gum disease. Because plaque can still develop with dentures, it can damage your gums. Plaque is a bacteria that grows in your mouth regardless of the presence of teeth. Therefore, you need to keep your mouth and dentures clean. Otherwise, you can experience an infection of the gum tissue or bone deterioration.
It is important to keep in mind that gum disease can affect more than just the mouth. People with gum disease are more likely to develop serious medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes.
Respiratory Illness
Harmful bacteria can grow and thrive on the surface of your dentures. If you don’t remove it, you may become susceptible to developing respiratory infections, such as pneumonia. This is because you can breathe in the bacteria, which can cause an infection in your lungs. Anything that goes in your mouth has the ability to influence your overall health, including bacteria.
How to Care for Your Dentures
To prevent unfortunate side effects, it is best to care for your dentures properly.
Clean Them Daily
It is best not to let too much time go by before you clean your dentures. Therefore, you should clean your dentures at least once a day to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Many dentists recommend cleaning your dentures when you take them out for sleep. This can help reduce the number of bacteria that enter and grow in your mouth.
Take Them Out When Sleeping
Although dentures are necessary for gum health, wearing them too long can cause damage. If you don’t utilize a tooth replacement option, you can experience bone deterioration. This is because your gums and bones need the stimulation and pressure of all your teeth. Without it, they will begin to deteriorate. However, wearing your dentures too long can have a similar effect. Therefore, you need to give your gums a break.
Additionally, wearing dentures too much can create sores in your mouth that can become infected.
People who wear their dentures while sleeping can increase their risk of developing respiratory illnesses.
Avoid Heat or Harsh Chemicals
When cleaning your dentures, be sure never to use hot water. Hot water can warp the shape of your, making it painful or impossible to wear your dentures. In addition, harsh chemicals can damage your dentures or make you sick.