If you have dentures, it is important for you to keep them clean. This is because the cleanliness of your dentures can impact your oral health. Because dentures are mostly plastic dental appliances, some people think that a good oral health routine is not necessary.
However, harmful bacteria can build on your dentures as well. Your mouth is full of bacteria that you must remove on a daily basis in order to stay healthy. In fact, your oral health can influence your overall health.
Why Keep Dentures Clean?
Patients who don’t thoroughly clean their dentures are at an increased risk of developing a respiratory infection, such as pneumonia. The growth of bacteria can explain this situation. Your mouth is full of bacteria—both good and bad. If you have a good oral health routine, plaque generally won’t cause serious problems.
However, harmful bacteria like plaque will continue to build and multiply unless you remove it. If you have a poor oral health routine, the plaque will thrive. Anything that goes through your mouth has the potential to influence the rest of your body, including bacteria.
Increased bacteria can strengthen the possibility of pneumonia. This is because you can inhale the bacteria into your lungs, causing an infection.
Additionally, you can still develop gum disease if you have dentures. It is vital that you have good oral hygiene.
Brush Dentures Every Day
Although dentures are not a natural portion of your mouth, it is still important to clean them daily. Generally, most patients will clean their dentures before they soak them for the night. Before bed, remove your dentures and use a soft-bristled brush to scrub your dentures gently. Be sure to use a non-abrasive cleanser. It is possible to scratch the surface of your dentures, which can make them harder to clean.
Scratches create room for bacteria to grow, making it difficult for you to clean your dentures completely. In addition, it can increase your chances of developing gum disease or other issues.
Soak Dentures Nightly
One special care instruction that you must follow is to soak your dentures at night. It is vital that you remove your dentures to sleep. Firstly, your gums need a break from wearing your dentures all day. While it is necessary to wear dentures to support your gums and jaw bones, wearing dentures too often can cause harm.
You can also begin to develop sores in your mouth, which can become painful. Secondly, wearing your dentures overnight can increase your risk of respiratory infection.
Once you remove your dentures, you should soak them in water or an appropriate soaking solution. This is because your dentures must stay moist to keep their shape.
Unfortunately, dentures can warp, making them painful or impossible to wear your dentures. In addition, not soaking your dentures can increase the number of bacteria
Don’t Forget About Your Mouth
Additionally, you should always brush your teeth or gums with a soft toothbrush or gauze.