If you have lost one or most of your teeth, wearing dentures can help restore your confidence and make eating, speaking, and other everyday tasks easier. Dentures are a more affordable alternative to dental implants, but it would require a period of adjustment until you eventually get used to wearing them. Aside from having to deal with the awkward feeling once you first wear them, you must also take note of a number of denture mistakes you should avoid to ensure that your dentures last a long time.
Brushing Them Aggressively
Remember that dentures, just like your natural teeth, must be brushed every day. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a paste designed for cleaning them. Be sure not to brush the dentures too hard because it could lead to scratches.
Storing them in Hot Water
Although it is important to keep your dentures moist at all times to prevent them from being damaged, make sure not to store them in hot water. Keeping them in warm temperatures can cause them to be out of shape. Putting your dentures in lukewarm water is the best way of storing them.
Cleaning Them On an Empty Sink
If you are the clumsy type, it is best not to brush your dentures over an empty sink. It could lead to greater damage especially when you accidentally drop them, causing them to crack or completely break. If you want to clean them on the sink, fill the sink with water so that in case the dentures fall, they don’t hit a hard surface.
Thinking They Don’t Get Stained
Just like real teeth, dentures get stained, too. To prevent them from getting discolored easily, avoid eating too much dark colored food and drinks like red wine, coffee, and berries.
Even after your dentist has made the necessary adjustments to your dentures, they could still feel a bit uncomfortable during your first wear. You must be patient since they will fit better eventually. If you take care of them properly and avoid making the common mistakes listed above, you will be able to keep your dentures in great condition.