4 Points to Keep in Mind When You Get Dentures in Sarasota

It can be quite a relief once your dentures are made and ready to wear. Having a smile you can be proud to show off will boost your confidence and make your appearance feel whole again. Of course, dentures also come with their fair share of maintenance.

If you want to avoid damaging your dentures in Sarasota and make them last as long as possible, keep these points from your dentist in mind.

Manage Your Diet

While you can eat many more foods with dentures, you’ll want to make sure you don’t eat foods that could damage them, while still maintaining a balanced diet. For example, you’ll want to avoid foods that are hard, sticky, or difficult to chew. Foods like caramel, nuts, and corn on the cob can easily get trapped in dentures or cause them to move around.

In the first few weeks of wearing dentures, opt for soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. A few examples include:

• Hot cereals
• Applesauce
• Mashed vegetables or potatoes
• Yogurt or pudding
• Gelatin

Once you’ve become more adjusted to your dentures, you can slowly start incorporating foods that require more chewing, including:

• Pasta
• Rice
• Soft breads
• Baked beans
• Eggs
• Fish without the skin
• Ice cream

Additionally, make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day. This will prevent dry mouth which can irritate the gums and increase the potential for bacterial decay.

Care for Your Dentures

Dentures can still stain and develop plaque and tartar, so don’t skip your daily oral care routine! To care for your dentures, start by rinsing them with cold water to remove stray food particles. Then, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, mild soap or detergent, and cold water to clean them. Avoid using toothpaste or other bleaching agents which can easily scratch them.

You’ll also need to soak your dentures whenever they’re not in use. Soaking them in a denture cleanser will remove food and bacteria, keeping your mouth healthy and reduce bad breath. Make sure the cleanser is washed off before wearing them. Never leave them exposed to air for long periods of time.

Practice Proper Oral Care

Your mouth can still develop plaque and bacteria without teeth, so you’ll need to brush it twice a day. Use a fluoridated toothpaste and dedicated soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your gums, cheeks, and tongue. This will help you prevent bacterial infections and protect your overall health.

Visit Your Dentist in Sarasota

The ADA recommends all patients visit their dentist every six months, even if they wear dentures. During your visit, your dentist can:

• Help you maintain the quality and fit of your dentures
• Examine your mouth for irritations or other issues
• Give your dentures a professional cleaning
• Provide valuable info on denture adhesives
• Offer tips on talking and eating with dentures

Have more questions about adjusting to your new dentures? Your dentist in Sarasota is here to help. Schedule an appointment with them today!

About the Author

Dr. Warren G. Hoffman earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. He provides patients with fully customized partial or full dentures in Sarasota to address all their needs. To learn more about his practice, contact him through his website.