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Posted on 12/15/2018 by Dr. Castellon |
If you have a removable partial denture, there are a few things you need to know about how to properly care for it. Keep in mind that, although the partial denture is designed to stand up under the wear and tear of chewing, in order for it to perform at its best you do need to take a few steps. Here are the most important items to remember. Prepare Your Work Area Prior to CleaningWhen you remove your partial denture, you want to be sure that you won't be running the risk of dropping it and breaking it. To this end, put down a soft towel if you are working on a countertop; if you are standing over the sink, put some water in the sink. The idea is to eliminate any hard surfaces that could end up causing the partial denture to break if you accidentally drop it.Avoid Extremely Hot WaterMost people associate hot water with cleanliness, and they think that using hot water to clean their partial denture will yield better results than cold water. Actually, this is a myth: cool or warm water will work just fine. Using water that is too hot can cause your partial denture to warp, and then it won't fit properly.Use the Proper Cleaning SuppliesAlthough you use toothpaste for your teeth, you should not use it for cleaning your partial denture. Toothpaste contains abrasive elements that can cause microscopic scratches in your denture. These scratches become breeding grounds for bacteria, contributing to halitosis and other issues.Instead of toothpaste, use warm water, denture paste, or even a mild soap to clean your partial denture. This will get the denture clean without leaving the scratches. Of course, once you are finished brushing the denture, you want to be certain to rinse it very well before putting it back in your mouth. If you have questions about your partial denture, feel free to give us a call. |