If you have lost your teeth through a dental disease or accident, a dental professional can replace them with dentures. The devices help keep teeth in place, which aids in smiling, chewing, and talking. This article offers critical tips for taking care of dentures. 

Denture Adhesives

Poorly-fit dentures often lead to dental pain and soreness. For a better fit, wearers may need denture adhesives because the devices need to stay in place when talking and eating. In addition, denture adhesives prevent food particles from sticking between gums and the devices. However, adhesives should only be used after consulting a dental expert because some have zinc, leading to profound health issues after prolonged use. 

Giving Your Mouth a Break

When you wear dentures throughout the day, the chances are high that you might develop irritation and soreness. Dental professionals recommend sleeping without dentures for a period of at least 6 to 8 hours per day. It allows your mouth gets much-needed rest before putting the dentures back in. During a break, soak dentures in a denture cleanser or warm water to rid them of bacteria, plaque, and food. Besides, soaking dentures removes germs that often lead to bad breath. With different cleansers available, including creams, gels, and effervescent, consult your dentist to get the right product for your dentures. 

Proper Hydration

Denture wearers are likely to experience drying of the mouth, which causes gum and mouth irritation. Notably, irritation is one of the causes of bacterial decay in gums and the mouth. Staying hydrated is a sure way of replenishing body fluids such as saliva. Drink loads of water to keep your mouth moist. If you are on medication, consult your doctor or dentist since some medications cause the mouth to dry. Similarly, your dentist can recommend saliva substitutes.   

Eating

After fitting dentures, you should always eat soft foods cut into small pieces. Also, chew the food slowly on both sides of the mouth to avoid tipping dentures. After a week or so, you can start eating harder and coarser foods when you are comfortable with dentures. Note that it takes time to learn how to chew properly with dentures.  

Visiting a Dentist Regularly

Even after having dentures fitted in your mouth, you should visit your dentist for regular checkups. For example, mouth infections might occur among some denture wearers, requiring medical attention. For instance, improper fitting of dentures can lead to inflammation of the mouth caused by yeast overgrowth — a condition called angular cheilitis. A dental visit ensures that your dentures fit correctly, reducing the chances of developing angular cheilitis.