Denture Care Tips for Seniors
Photo source: Pexels
For many seniors, dentures play an essential role in preserving confidence and well-being by restoring smiles and enabling everyday activities like eating and speaking with ease.
Whether you’re adjusting to your new false teeth or seeking to refine your care routine, understanding dentures for seniors and the ways to take care of them is key to ensuring they remain comfortable and long-lasting.
Types of Dentures
Dentures for seniors come in various forms to address specific dental needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:
Complete dentures
Complete false teeth or full dentures are designed to replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. These removable acrylic appliances restore oral function and facial structure. They’re ideal for patients with no remaining natural teeth.
Partial dentures
Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain; these consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-coloured base, often with a metal framework. They prevent adjacent teeth from shifting and improve chewing ability.
Immediate dentures
Immediate dentures are immediately placed after tooth extraction; these temporary dentures maintain appearance during healing. They may require adjustments as gums shrink.
Snap-in dentures (implant-supported)
Implant-supported dentures are securely anchored to dental implants embedded in the jawbone, providing a permanent solution. This design ensures stability, preventing slippage or movement during daily activities like eating and speaking.
Denture Care Tips for Seniors
Clean your dentures daily
Dentures should be cleaned daily to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria that can lead to gum irritation or infections. Use a soft-bristled denture brush or a toothbrush specifically designed for dentures along with a non-abrasive denture cleaner or liquid hand soap. Also, avoid regular toothpaste, as it may scratch the surface of the dentures.
Soak your dentures overnight
Dentures need to stay moist to retain their shape and functionality. Soak them overnight in lukewarm water or a denture-cleaning solution recommended by your dentist. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the material.
Maintain your oral hygiene
Even with dentures, oral hygiene is critical. Brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth daily using a soft toothbrush to stimulate circulation and remove plaque. Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria buildup before reinserting the dentures.
Visit your dentist regularly
Routine dental check-ups are crucial for seniors with dentures. A dentist can examine the fit of the dentures, check for signs of gum disease or irritation, and provide professional cleaning if needed.
Smile Brighter with Well-Maintained Dentures
Around 65% of seniors with complex care requirements, including both those living independently and residents of aged care facilities, use dentures. This highlights the critical need for proper prosthetic care. When maintained appropriately, dentures for seniors can remain comfortable, function effectively, and help preserve a confident, active lifestyle.
