Few denture wearers remember to visit the dental office for regular checkups. This is not surprising since poor oral hygiene may have been a contributing factor to their tooth loss in the first place. Here are a few facts about dentures that may motivate the wearer to manage their oral health care on a regular basis.
- Dentures made of acrylic resin may have surface pores which appear solid to the naked eye but their flaws can be seen under a microscope. While your mouths may have the benefit of the body’s immune system, acrylic denture material has no germ fighting properties so bacteria can easily reproduce on the artificial teeth. This can be a serious health concern overshadowed by the most frequent issue reported by denture wearers, bad breath. Overnight soaking has been known to reduce odor causing bacteria.
- Denture wearers can kill up to 99.9% of the bacteria that colonizes in artificial teeth by using over the shelf denture disinfectants. Consult with your dentist and manufacturers recommendations to determine the best product for reducing bacteria in your set of teeth.
- Patients who suffer from dry mouth and contaminated dentures have additional health risks. The average person over 65 uses 3 prescriptions and 2 over the counter medications per day. These can cause dry mouth. Under normal conditions, saliva provides a natural equilibrium to the mouth. Dry mouth sufferers wearing dentures should use oral moisturizers that would provide relief and keep the delicate balance in place.
- Older patients with or without dentures have higher bacterial counts in their saliva. This is attributed to reduced saliva and diminished immune system.
- Those patients who suffer from diminished manual dexterity might have a problem with regular cleaning methods, such as brushing.
According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, more than 50% of the US population, over the age of 50, has full or partial dentures. As people age, their mouth may require more vigilant care. Denture wearers should routinely seek oral evaluations from their dentist to maintain their oral and overall health.
If you are looking for new dentures, a consultation about caring for or receiving dentures, or denture care and maintenance, contact one of our Worcester area dental offices for an appointment today!
