The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and a plethora of delicious foods. But for those with dentures, it can also bring unique challenges. At Dogwood Dental Spa, we understand the importance of maintaining your dentures during this festive time.
Scroll deeper and discover how to keep your smile bright and your dentures in top condition.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made replacements for missing teeth and can be removed and put back into your mouth. While they take some getting used to and will never feel exactly the same as natural teeth, today’s dentures are natural-looking and more comfortable than ever.
They come in two main types: full or partial dentures and both require special care to maintain their effectiveness and longevity.
Caring for Your Dentures This Holiday Season
The holiday season is a time to enjoy, and with the right care, your dentures shouldn’t hold you back.
Here are some care tips for your dentures that you can apply this holiday season:
- Start with Soft Foods. The holidays are synonymous with an array of foods. If you’re new to dentures, begin by consuming soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth to keep the pressure even. This will help you avoid discomfort and ensure your dentures stay in place.
- Be Mindful of Hot Beverages. With the cold weather, hot beverages are a must. However, be cautious with extremely hot water, which can warp your dentures. Let your drinks cool down a bit before enjoying them.
- Clean Denture Regularly. Just like natural teeth, denture teeth require daily cleaning. After each meal, remove and gently clean your dentures to remove food particles and plaque. Use a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive cleanser to avoid scratching the surfaces.
- Avoid Certain Foods. Sticky, hard, or chewy foods can damage dentures. Foods like caramel, nuts, or hard candies should be consumed cautiously or avoided to prevent damage to denture teeth.
- Soak Dentures Overnight. Most dentures need to remain moist to keep their shape. Place them in water or a mild denture-soaking solution overnight. This also gives your gums a chance to rest.
- Handle with Care. Dentures are delicate and can break if dropped. When handling your dentures, do so over a folded towel or a basin of water to mitigate the risk of breakage.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups. Visit Dogwood Dental Spa for regular check-ups. The holiday season can be busy, but keeping up with your dental appointments is important. We can help ensure your dentures fit properly and make any necessary adjustments.
- Consider Dental Implants. For a more permanent solution, you might want to consider dental implants. They can provide a more stable and comfortable fit than traditional dentures. Talk to us at Dogwood Dental Spa to see if you’re a good candidate for implants.
Remember these tips, and you can confidently indulge in the festivities. If you have any concerns or need professional advice, our team at Dogwood Dental Spa in Waxhaw, NC, is here to help.
Contact us today to ensure your smile is holiday-ready!