Dentures can accumulate bacteria just like your natural teeth can. The difference is that dentures are porous where your teeth are not. That means that the bacteria have pockets they can hide in that your toothbrush can't get to. That is why it's important to have regular dental appointments even after you have dentures.
So What Do I Have to Do to Have a Healthy Mouth?
There are several conditions that can develop when you have dentures. They are common and can happen to anyone but you will reduce your potential for them if you practice good denture hygiene. Some of the problems you can have are gingivitis or stomatitis but there are steps you can take to avoid this.Gingivitis is a condition characterized by bleeding gums. It is caused by plaque building up under and along the gum line. If you don't take care of this condition, it can lead to infection.
Stomatitis is a yeast or fungus infection that can occur when you have dentures. If you have stomatitis you may notice red areas under your dentures or you could have sore or red areas at the corners of your mouth. If you don't treat this you will have ill-fitting dentures. So, what can you do to avoid these common problems?
After you take your dentures off, be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush your gums, tongue, roof of your mouth and tongue. This will remove the plaque and will help keep down the potential for bad breath.
Rinse your mouth with salt water that is lukewarm to help wash your gums. Take your dentures out at night and give your tissues a rest. Don't smoke, it irritates your gums more.
Please contact our office if you have any questions about your dentures.