Dentures and partials are a big investment, even if your dental plan helps to pay. Proper care can keep them – and your mouth – in tip-top shape:

• Rinse dentures or partials with water after eating to wash away food bits.
• Handle them carefully as they can break or bend – especially partials with clasps.
• Brush or soak them daily and don’t use hot water, which can warp them.
• Soaking overnight is best since dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape.
• Use fresh water or a mild solution of denture cleaner and change it daily.
• Rinse well before putting them back in, especially after soaking in denture cleaner.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners like stiff bristles, harsh toothpaste and products with bleach.

Care for your mouth, too.

Stick to a regular morning and evening oral care routine. It’s important to keep your mouth and gums clean and healthy to support your dentures.

• Remove dentures at night to prevent swollen gums and mouth sores. Be sure to store them away from any pets.
• Brush your tongue and cheeks with a soft-bristle toothbrush or tongue scraper to remove plaque.
• Massage your gums to promote circulation and keep your gums firm.
• Watch for mouth sores or irritated gums – if you experience these issues, see your dentist.

Don’t skip regular dental exams.

Good oral health isn’t just about your teeth. Dentists also check your lips, tongue, gums and jaw.

In addition, they can adjust your dentures if they become loose or uncomfortable. So, make sure to take advantage of the preventive care your dental plan covers.

Check out more tips on oral care after dentures.

Click here to continue reading this month’s United Concordia Dental Wellness Connection Newsletter.