Month: November 2015

Many of our patients experience tooth loss, and while dentures can provide a solid solution for missing teeth, there’s still a maintenance routine that needs to be done to extend the life of dentures and protect overall oral health. At my Holland dental office we want all of our patients to get the most out of their dentures, so we’re here to talk about the dos and don’ts of proper denture care.

Why is Proper Care Important ?

Not only does proper denture care protect your investment in a tooth replacement option, but it also helps keep your mouth and any remaining teeth healthy. If dentures are not well taken care of, it could lead to an uncomfortable fit and even some serious oral health concerns. When a proper denture care routine isn’t followed, plaque particles can collect and lead to chronic bad breath, gum disease, and tooth loss of any remaining teeth.

How to Extend the Life of Your Denture

There are some common dos and don’ts of denture care that can either prolong the life of your denture or cause complications.

Dos

• DO rinse dentures after every meal to eliminate as many food particles as possible. If foodstuffs aren’t removed, they’ll begin to decompose and result in bad breath or gum disease.

• DO brush your dentures daily. Similarly to rinsing, brushing takes cleaning away food one step further. Brush gently at a 45 degree angle, just like you would your natural teeth.

• DO soak your dentures every night in water or a denture solution. Dentures need to remain hydrated, and soaking is the way to do it. Make sure you’re using a solution recommended by your doctor.

• DO visit your Holland dentist regularly. Regular checkups are important to ensure a proper fit and to monitor any possible signs of a problem.

Don’ts

• DON’T use harsh or abrasive paste or bristles. They can damage the denture.

• DON’T try to adjust or fix your own dentures.

• DON’T drop them. They’re very delicate and can break easily.

• DON’T let them dry out. Whenever you’re not wearing them, make sure they’re soaking.

For additional information on denture care, or to see if they’re a solution for you, give my dental office in Holland a call. We’ll work with you to see if dentures are right for you and discuss any and all treatments available.

Accepting patients from Holland, Saugatuck, and Zeeland.

We’re always talking to our patients about the importance of a proper oral hygiene routine of brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting my dental office in Holland regularly.  But did you know these guidelines can do more than just ensure a healthy mouth? They can also provide insight to other whole-body problems.

The Mouth/Body Connection

Many systemic diseases (whole-body diseases) have oral manifestations and often first show signs in the mouth. Some of these overall health problems are incredibly serious, such as:

• Heart disease
• Pancreatic cancer
• Leukemia
• Diabetes

Notice Any of These Signs?

If you see any of these symptoms, it’s important to call your Holland dentist as soon as possible. Early detection is key for the most successful treatment, so don’t wait. Serious signs include:

• Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
• Gums that have pulled away from teeth
• Chronic bad breath
• Ulcers

Steps to Better Health

In addition to a proper, at-home hygiene routine and regular dental visits, there are several ways you can help protect your smile against dangerous bacteria, and your body against serious disease.

• Water, water, water. When it comes to choosing your beverage of choice, select water whenever possible. It helps rinse away bacteria and acid in the mouth and hydrates your body.

• Say no to tobacco. Besides the effects smoking or chewing tobacco can have on your smile, using any form of tobacco can lead to overall health complications.

• Practice proper nutrition. Eating well-balanced meals is important for proper body function as well as optimal oral health. Avoid snacking throughout the day, especially sticky, sugary foods.

Your dentist could be the first line of defense against many serious diseases. If you’re experiencing any of the signs above, or if you haven’t seen a dentist in awhile, give my Holland dental office a call. We’ll perform a thorough exam, talk with you about any potential problems we find, and stand with you through your individualized treatment plan. Your health is the most important thing to us, and we’ll help any way we can.

Welcoming patients from Holland, Saugatuck, and Zeeland.