How to Care for Your Dentures: Tips from a Spartanburg Dentist

How to Care for Your Dentures: Tips from a Spartanburg Dentist

If you’ve recently received dentures or are considering them as a restorative option, learning proper denture care is essential to protecting your oral health and extending the life of your appliance. 

At Skylyn Dental Associates, Dr. Paul Gibas and our compassionate dental team are committed to ensuring that our patients not only receive high-quality prosthetics but also know how to maintain them properly. Whether you're new to dentures or have been wearing them for years, these helpful tips will guide you in preserving both your smile and comfort.

How to Care for Your Dentures: Tips from a Spartanburg Dentist

Daily Denture Cleaning Routine

Just like natural teeth, dentures accumulate food particles, plaque, and bacteria throughout the day. A consistent cleaning routine helps reduce irritation, protects your gums, and keeps your breath fresh. Here’s how to properly care for your dentures every day:

  • Rinse after eating: Remove your dentures and rinse them with water to eliminate loose food debris.
  • Brush daily: Use a soft-bristled brush and denture-specific cleanser to clean all surfaces. Avoid toothpaste, which can be too abrasive and wear down your dentures over time.
  • Soak overnight: Place your dentures in a denture-soaking solution or plain water while you sleep to maintain their shape and moisture and give your gums a rest, too.
  • Rinse before wearing: Always rinse your dentures thoroughly before placing them back in your mouth.

Good hygiene not only enhances comfort but also extends the lifespan of your dentures, keeping your smile looking and feeling natural.

Protecting the Fit and Function of Your Dentures

Ill-fitting dentures can cause sore spots, slipping, and difficulty speaking or eating. To keep your dentures functioning well:

  • Handle with care: When cleaning, place a towel on the sink or fill it up with some water to avoid breakage if dropped.
  • Avoid DIY adjustments: Never attempt to bend or reshape dentures yourself. Fit issues or misalignments should always be corrected by your dentist.
  • Store them correctly: Always keep your dentures moist while storing them to ensure they do not dry out and become warped.

Dr. Paul Gibas at Skylyn Dental offers personalized adjustments to ensure your dentures continue to fit comfortably over time. If you notice soreness, slippage, or speech issues, don’t hesitate to bring them in for a checkup.

Monitor Your Oral Health

Even if you no longer have any natural teeth, maintaining healthy gums and oral tissues is crucial. Regular denture users should:

  • Rinse your mouth daily: Use antimicrobial mouthwash or warm salt water to reduce bacteria and soothe tissues.
  • Clean your tongue and gums: Gently brush your gums, inner cheeks, and palate to remove buildup and stimulate circulation.
  • Be alert for changes: Watch for signs of irritation, redness, or white patches, and report them promptly to your dentist.

At Skylyn Dental Associates, we encourage routine dental visits even for denture wearers. These six-month checkups allow us to ensure your oral tissues remain healthy and your dentures continue to fit correctly, especially as your mouth naturally changes over time.

When to See Your Spartanburg Dentist

While good at-home maintenance is essential, some situations require professional evaluation. Contact us right away if you experience:

  • Persistent sore spots or discomfort
  • Difficulty chewing or speaking
  • Brittle, cracked, or damaged dentures
  • Sudden changes in fit or retention

Skylyn Dental offers same-day emergency dentistry for urgent concerns. If you’re having issues with our dentures, feel free to give us a call and book an appointment right away. Your comfort is always our top priority, and our team is here to support you with compassionate, personalized solutions.

Schedule Your Denture Consultation in Spartanburg Today

Taking good care of your dentures ensures long-term comfort, confidence, and a vibrant smile. If you have questions about denture care or are ready for a denture exam or adjustment, Dr. Paul Gibas and the experienced team at Skylyn Dental Associates are ready to help. Call us today at (864) 573-9255 to request an appointment and experience the individualized, expert care that sets our practice apart.