Posted on 1/15/2025 by Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry
Many people believe that once they get dentures, they no longer need to worry about their oral health. However, this is not the case. In fact, taking care of your gums is even more important when you have dentures.
Why Your Gums Matter
Your gums are the foundation for your teeth, and they play a vital role in keeping your mouth healthy. When you have healthy gums, they are firm and pink, and they fit snugly around your teeth. This helps to prevent food and bacteria from getting under your gums and causing inflammation or infection.
However, when you wear dentures, your gums are constantly under pressure. This can cause them to become irritated and inflamed. Over time, this can lead to gum recession, which is when your gums pull away from your teeth. Gum recession can make it difficult to wear your dentures comfortably, and it can also increase your risk of developing gum disease.
How to Keep Your Gums Healthy
The good news is that there are a few things you can do to keep your gums healthy, even if you wear dentures. Here are a few tips:
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Brush your gums regularly. Even if you don't have any teeth, it's important to brush your gums twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause inflammation.
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Remove your dentures at night. This will give your gums a chance to rest and recover from the pressure of wearing dentures all day.
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See your dentist regularly. It's important to see your dentist for regular checkups, even if you don't have any teeth. Your dentist can check your gums for any signs of inflammation or infection, and they can also make sure your dentures are fitting properly.
Other Oral Health Considerations
In addition to taking care of your gums, it's also important to take care of your remaining teeth and any other oral structures. This includes:
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Brushing and flossing your remaining teeth. If you still have some of your natural teeth, it's important to brush and floss them twice a day. This will help to prevent cavities and gum disease.
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Cleaning your tongue. Your tongue can harbor bacteria that can contribute to bad breath and gum disease. Be sure to brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth.
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Rinsing with mouthwash. Mouthwash can help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Choose a mouthwash that is specifically designed for people who wear dentures.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your gums healthy and your mouth free of problems.
Conclusion
Taking care of your gums is important for everyone, but it's especially important if you wear dentures. By following the tips above, you can help to keep your gums healthy and your mouth free of problems. If you have any questions about your oral health, be sure to talk to your dentist.
Dental Blog | Wausau, WI | Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry Dr. David Wanserski, DDS, from Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry, has created this informative blog to help educate the community. Learn more. Wanserski Dental Center for Complex Dentistry, 550 N. 17th Ave. Wausau, WI 54401; (715) 848-2435; wanserskidental.com; 2/3/2025; Page Terms:dental implants Wausau WI;