Maintaining Oral Health with Prosthetics Prosthetic dental devices, such as dentures, bridges, and implants, play a vital role in restoring function and aesthetics for individuals who have lost one or more teeth. While these prosthetics significantly improve quality of life, maintaining oral health with them requires diligent care and attention. Proper maintenance not only prolongs the life of the prosthetics but also ensures the overall health of your gums and remaining teeth. The Importance of Oral Hygiene with ProstheticsOral hygiene is crucial for everyone, but it becomes even more critical for those with dental prosthetics. Without proper care, the gums and surrounding teeth can become susceptible to infection, decay, and other dental issues. Additionally, the prosthetics themselves can harbor bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health problems. Regular Dental Check-UpsEven with the most diligent at-home care, regular visits to the dentist are essential for maintaining oral health with prosthetics. Over time, the fit of your dentures or bridges may change due to natural changes in your mouth. Ill-fitting prosthetics can cause sores, discomfort, and difficulty in chewing. Regular check-ups ensure that your prosthetics fit properly and function effectively. Our dentists can spot potential issues, such as gum disease, infections, or complications related to implants before they become serious. Early detection allows for timely treatment, preventing further oral health problems. Professional cleanings are vital for removing plaque and tartar that may accumulate around your prosthetics. This deep cleaning helps prevent gum disease and keeps your mouth healthy. Special Considerations for Different ProstheticsDifferent types of prosthetics require specific care practices to ensure their longevity and the health of your mouth. DenturesDentures are fragile and can break if dropped. Always handle them over a soft surface, such as a towel, to prevent damage. After meals, rinse your dentures to remove food particles and prevent staining. Dental ImplantsIf you have dental implants, you'll need to protect yourself against peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis is an infection that affects the tissue around an implant, similar to gum disease around natural teeth. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are key to preventing this condition. BridgesThe area beneath a dental bridge is often a magnet for plaque and bacteria. Flossing and using interdental brushes help keep these areas clean and free from decay-causing agents. Diet and Lifestyle TipsMaintaining oral health with prosthetics entails making smart dietary and lifestyle choices in addition to keeping your prosthetics clean. Hard foods like nuts or sticky foods like caramel can damage prosthetics or get stuck underneath them, leading to discomfort or even damage. Sugary foods increase the risk of tooth decay around natural teeth and under bridges. Moderation is key, and maintaining good oral hygiene after consuming such foods is essential. Smoking can stain prosthetics, contribute to gum disease, and increase the risk of implant failure. Quitting smoking is beneficial for both your oral and overall health. Maintaining oral health with prosthetics requires a combination of proper cleaning, regular dental visits, and mindful lifestyle choices. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your dentures, implants, or bridges remain in excellent condition and that your mouth stays healthy. Remember, Drs. Cunningham and Gazdeck and are vital partners in this process, so don't hesitate to seek their advice and care to keep your smile in top shape. Come see us at Durham Prosthodontics so we can discuss your best oral health options. We can also be reached by phone at (984) 312-7056. Give us a call today. |
Contact Information3709 University Dr Suite D Durham, NC 27707-6224 (984) 312-7056 info@mydurhamdentist.com Follow Us |
