New Teeth, Old Dental Care Habits

Using false teeth doesn't mean you can now conveniently say goodbye to brushing. While dentures may be impervious to tooth decay, your gums still need caring, and they could get infected from dirty dentures. Your artificial teeth notwithstanding, you still need to maintain good oral health habits, including brushing your teeth at least twice a day.

There are, however, a few additional rules to follow. For instance, you should take your dentures off before sleeping to give your gums a chance to rest. Dentures must be separately cleaned and allowed to sit in a prescribed cleaning solution for the entire night to keep them germ-free. Never use bleach or hot water on them to avoid damaging. Likewise, if your dentures have metal attachments, make sure you use only the right cleaning agent that would protect the metal.

Dentures have a lifespan of between five and seven years, given the right care. This does not mean, though, that you should only go see your dentist for a check up when the time for a possible replacement nears. Continue dental visits in six month intervals to ensure proper maintenance of your false teeth, and to check for possible signs of gum diseases and irritation.