When you get your dentures for the first time, there’s often a lot to learn. Your new prosthetic will be a noticeable improvement over a life without teeth, but you’ll still have to adapt to the new state of your mouth.
Eating, talking, and smiling will all feel completely different, not to mention the various components of upkeep that you’ll have to start thinking about. For example, when do you take your dentures out? Is it necessary to remove them, or can you leave them on 24/7? In the interest of helping you adapt to dentures as quickly as possible, here’s what you should know about when to remove them.
Can I Wear My Dentures All the Time?
When you put your dentures on, particularly full dentures, you’re relying on the strength of your gums for support. The prosthetic’s pressure isn’t that big of a deal on a day-to-day basis, so long as you take some time to let your gums rest periodically. For that reason, you need to take your dentures out frequently; most dentists recommend doing so overnight.
This also gives you an opportunity to clean your prosthetic. Leaving your dentures on 24/7 allows for the buildup of bacteria underneath your prosthetic, along the gumline. Giving your gums the opportunity to breathe solves this issue.
What Should I Do When I Take Off My Dentures?
When you take your dentures off each night, this is a good time to disinfect both your prosthetic and your gums. You should take this opportunity to brush your gums thoroughly with a soft-bristled toothbrush, just like you would with your regular teeth. You can do the same with your dentures, though it’s recommended to clean them without any toothpaste. You could potentially abrade your prosthetic if you brush with regular toothpaste. It’s therefore best to stick with either water or specialized denture cleaner.
Overnight, it’s often a good idea to soak your dentures in a specialized cleaning solution. This can be purchased at any pharmacy. Do this, and you’ll wake up to a set of perfectly clean dentures day after day!
About the Author
Dr. Damon Anderson believes in the power of dentistry to change people’s lives; after all, he sees it firsthand every day! Whether it’s through keeping patients informed about their oral health or by providing them with a brand-new smile, he loves to help his patients love their teeth. Dr. Anderson received his dental degree from the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry and has remained committed to continuing his education ever since.
If you have any questions about dentures, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (949) 643-3129.
