Implants are small metal posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone. The post gradually bonds with surrounding tissue and bone until it becomes a strong anchor that permanently holds replacement teeth.

Cleaning Partial Dentures
Partial dentures must be removed and cleaned daily. Cleaning removes plaque and food particles that can cause stains, bad breath and gum irritation. Brush all surfaces, especially under the clasps, where bacteria collect. Remember to clean the rest of your teeth, gums and tongue. At bedtime, place the partial in water.

Cleaning Dentures
Dentures should be cleaned daily because plaque forms on dentures the same way it forms on natural teeth. Dentures are breakable and can break if dropped or squeezed too tightly. Place a towel in the sink. Fill the sink half full of water to stop the denture from breaking if dropped.

Either a denture brush or a regular toothbrush with soft rounded bristles will clean all parts of a denture. Denture cleaner, soap, dishwashing liquid or baking soda may be used for cleaning dentures. Never use an abrasive household cleaner like Ajax or bleach. Rinse carefully in clean water before placing dentures back in the mouth.

Remove Dentures
Dentures need to be removed from the mouth for six to eight hours each day to give the mouth a chance to rest. Remember to clean and massage your gums with a clean washcloth, or a soft bristled toothbrush. Brush your tongue too. This removes plaque and will increase circulation.

Soaking Dentures
At night, dentures should soak in lukewarm water. Use a half-and-half solution of water and vinegar to soften hardened plaque and remove light stains. Keep full or partial dentures in water when not in the mouth. This will stop dentures from drying out or warping. Note: if dentures have metal clasps use water only.

See a Dental Professional
The mouth changes often and regular dental appointments are necessary to keep a good comfortable fit. It is important to replace a worn or poorly fitting denture before it causes problems in the mouth. Repairing or relining dentures at home may seriously damage both the dentures and your gums. Poor fitting dentures can cause sore spots that may need medical attention.

Denture Tips

• You can expect some adjustment for the first month after getting a fixed partial, removable partial, or full denture. If discomfort lasts longer than 3-4 days, contact your dentist or denturist. Do not make your own adjustments.
• Poor oral hygiene can be the reason for denture discomfort.
• As we age, tissues become more sensitive to pressure and can cause sore spots. To ease discomfort, the mouth can be rinsed with baking soda and water or salt and water. If a sore mouth remains untreated, it can cause other problems. Contact a dentist or denturist if the soreness continues.
• Lower dentures, over time, may not fit as well. Your dentist or denturist can add a soft liner. This is a permanent liner and it will stay soft as long as the denture lasts.
• The upper denture is the one that usually causes the least discomfort. The advantage for the upper denture is suction with the roof of the mouth.

Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)
The following may be causes of xerostomia:

• anxiety
• cancer treatment
• depression
• diabetes
• dieting
• medication
• mouthbreathing
• removal of glands
• Sjögren's Syndrome
• thyroid problem

Dry mouth may make eating difficult and wearing dentures uncomfortable. To relieve the dryness, drink water more often. Avoid alcohol, tobacco and beverages with caffeine.

Calcium
It is important to maintain calcium intake throughout life. Calcium helps maintain strong bone structure, which is required for dentures to fit properly.

Dentures may help you to eat better, speak better, and look better. By taking care of your mouth, you can enjoy a healthy smile for a lifetime.

For further information, contact your dental health educator/coordinator, dental office or denturist.