How to Care for Dentures and Bridges

How to Care for Dentures and Bridges

At George Street Dental Surgery Bathurst, we believe that maintaining your dental appliances, such as dentures and bridges, is crucial for your oral health and overall well-being. Proper care will help extend the lifespan of these devices, ensuring they remain comfortable and functional. In this article, we’ll provide you with essential tips on how to care for your dentures and dental bridges effectively.

Caring for Dentures

Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth. They can be complete (replacing all teeth) or partial (replacing some teeth). Here are some tips to ensure your dentures remain in good condition:

1. Daily Cleaning:
   • Clean your dentures every day to remove food particles and plaque. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush or a denture brush with a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for dentures. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too harsh.
2. Soak Overnight:
   • Remove your dentures at night and soak them in a denture solution or plain water. This helps keep them moist and maintains their shape. Avoid soaking them in hot water, as it can warp the material.
3. Rinse Before Use:
   • Before putting your dentures back in, rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove any soaking solution or debris.
4. Handle with Care:
   • When cleaning or handling your dentures, do so over a soft surface, such as a towel or basin, to prevent breakage if you drop them.
5. Regular Dental Visits:
   • Schedule regular check-ups with your dentist at George Street Dental Surgery Bathurst to ensure your dentures fit well and to address any concerns you may have.

Caring for Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are fixed appliances used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring onto adjacent teeth. Proper care is essential to keep both the bridge and the surrounding teeth healthy:

1. Daily Oral Hygiene:
   • Brush your teeth at least twice a day, including the area around the bridge. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush to prevent plaque buildup.
2. Flossing:
   • Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from around the bridge and adjacent teeth. Use a floss threader or super floss to help navigate around the bridge.
3. Use an Antimicrobial Mouthwash:
   • Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce plaque and maintain healthy gums.
4. Avoid Hard Foods:
   • Be cautious when eating hard or sticky foods, as they can damage the bridge. Cut your food into smaller pieces to reduce the risk of damage.
5. Regular Check-Ups:
   • Just like with dentures, it’s vital to have regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your bridge and surrounding teeth. Our team can help ensure everything is functioning as it should.

Recognizing Problems

Both dentures and bridges can experience issues over time. Be aware of the following signs that may indicate a problem:

• Discomfort or Pain: Persistent discomfort may signal an improper fit or other issues.
• Changes in Fit: If your dentures feel loose or your bridge feels unstable, consult your dentist for adjustments.
• Gum Inflammation: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums can indicate gum disease, which requires immediate attention.

Conclusion

Caring for your dentures and dental bridges is essential to maintaining your oral health and ensuring a confident smile. At George Street Dental Surgery Bathurst, our team is dedicated to providing you with the information and support you need to care for your dental appliances effectively.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about caring for your dentures or bridges, or if you need a check-up, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come!