How to maintain my dental prosthesis?

About 1 in 5 people wear a dental prosthesis. It is just as important to take care of your dental prosthesis as it is of your natural teeth. Proper maintenance helps to extend the lifespan and maintain good oral hygiene. Learn how to clean it using the right products and tools.

What is a dental prosthesis?

There are several reasons why teeth could be missing from your mouth. It can be from a congenital absence, an overly invasive tooth decay, an accident, and more.

It is essential to consider the different replacement options. A space between your teeth can have several consequences in the long term, both in terms of hygiene and chewing function.

A dental prosthesis allows restoring this function by replacing the missing teeth. It also prevents the other teeth from moving over time to fill the space. People with several missing teeth may also find it more pleasant to eat because it’s easier to chew food. The prosthesis is easier to clean than missing teeth, which create many places where bacteria can accumulate.

There is a wide variety of dental prosthesis to choose from depending on your needs. Some are fixed and others can be easily removed. Some can be installed in the bone with dental implants.

It is possible to replace some of your teeth (partial denture) or all of them (complete upper and / or lower denture).

The importance of the prosthesis’s maintenance

Wearing a prosthesis requires special attention to your dental hygiene routine. Some models are made of acrylic or resin, which is porous and can cause the accumulation of biofilm and tartar.

It is therefore imperative to be very careful and rigorous about your dental hygiene techniques to prevent the accumulation of dental plaque responsible for decay and gum disease.

Here are some tips to help you. Our dental hygienists are always available to advise you about the steps to follow depending on your prosthesis and your needs.

Maintenance and cleaning procedures for a dental prosthesis

After each meal:

Removable prostheses: Remove the prosthesis to rinse it with tap water and brush it with a prosthesis brush. Gently brush your gums under the prosthesis to help blood circulation with a mildly abrasive toothpaste (ask your hygienist for advice). Fill the bottom of your sink to prevent your prosthesis from breaking if it ever slips off your hands while brushing.

Fixed prostheses: Brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush, just like you would do with natural teeth. Remember to floss at least once a day, especially under the base of your prosthesis. It is a beloved place for bacteria!

Before putting back your prosthesis, rinse it with warm water.

Every evening before bedtime:

If your prosthesis is removable, soak it in a glass of water that contains a prosthesis cleaner (such as Polident, available in pharmacies). Ask your dentist or dental hygienist which cleanser is best for you.

Once a year:

Even if you have missing teeth, it is essential to make an appointment each year to clean your prosthesis. Even though these are not natural teeth, tartar can build up and damage your natural teeth and gums. Professional cleaning can restore shine to your prosthesis by removing stains and tartar and allows you to make sure that it is not damaged and that it still suits your needs.

Discomfort? Talk to your dentist!

If you experience pain, irritation or discomfort in your gums or while chewing with your prostheses, make an appointment at the dental clinic right away. Your prosthesis could be poorly fitted or that your oral tissues are inflamed. Your dentist should be able to offer you the proper treatment or adjustment to your prosthesis as needed.

For any questions or advice regarding your prostheses, call Clinique Dentaire Champlain. It will be our pleasure to help you!