Caring For Implant Retained Dentures

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Caring For Implant Retained Dentures

admin • December 6, 2022

You’ve just got your brand-new implant retained dentures and you’re excited to show off your new smile without feeling self-conscious. Finally, you’ll be able to confidently resume your social life as well as pose for photos again. But, if you want to keep your implant supported dentures looking great for as long as possible, you need to know how you should take care of them.

At Smiles On Hudson, we help our clients keep their dentures looking and functioning optimally with the below helpful advice. But to understand how to properly care for your dentures, let’s first circle back to what implant retained dentures are and which styles they come in:

What Are Implant Retained Dentures?

Implant retained dentures are different to traditional dentures. While older-style dentures rely on suction or adhesives to stay in place, implant supported dentures are secured into the gums using dental implants, which are small titanium posts that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. They can be used for both the lower and upper jaw, replacing any missing teeth.

Implant retained dentures come in two styles:

Removable implant retained dentures are similar to traditional removable dentures, except they are held in place by dental implants rather than clasps or hooks. This makes them more secure in your mouth and less likely to move around
Fixed implant supported dentures are secured in place using dental implants for greater stability and support.

How Do You Care For Implant Retained Dentures?

You can care for your fixed implant retained dentures just as you would your natural teeth. This means you’ll need to brush at least twice a day and floss at least once every day. You should also avoid using any type of mouthwash that contains alcohol, as this can irritate the tissue around the implant. Visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning is also key for a healthy smile.

Here are a few key tips to maintaining removable implant retained dentures:

Remember to brush your dentures with a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dentures morning & night
Soak your dentures in a denture cleaning solution overnight at least once a week
Never use sharp objects to clean your dentures, as this can damage them
Keep your dentures in a case when you’re not wearing them

How Often Do You Clean Implant Dentures?

Cleaning implant dentures is a very important part of keeping them in good condition and will also ensure optimal oral health. Letting plaque and bacteria build up on your dentures may result in gum disease, infections and bad breath.

Clean your dentures every day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild, non-abrasive toothpaste, taking care to brush all surfaces thoroughly and then rinse them clean. If you’ve soaked your removable implant supported dentures overnight, be sure to rinse them well so they’re free of cleaning solution before you start wearing them again.

Visiting your dental professional regularly will also ensure optimal oral health and ensure any signs of gum disease or problems with your dentures are detected early.

What Advice Would You Give To Maintain Implants For Complete Dentures?

If you wear implant supported dentures, it is important to be aware of the signs of wear and tear. Although implant dentures are designed for durability and long-term use, they may eventually need to be replaced. Some common signs of wear and tear include fractures or chips in the teeth, looseness or instability and discolouration or staining. If you notice any of these signs, be sure to consult your denture specialist as soon as possible for advice on whether replacement or repairs are necessary.

To avoid damaging your dentures, be sure to avoid:

Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw
Eating hard or very crunchy foods
Using your teeth to open packages, bottles & other objects
Brushing with a hard toothbrush & abrasive toothpaste
Flossing too vigorously; this can cause damage to gums & your implant

Implant retained dentures are a great option for people who have difficulty wearing traditional dentures. Although implants require some special care, they are easy to clean and maintain with regular brushing and flossing. If you’re considering dental implants as an alternative to traditional dentures, call one of our dental professionals at Smiles On Hudson to find out if they’re the right option for you.

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