How to Look After Your Gums and Remaining Natural Teeth

Here are some ways to properly care for your gums and teeth when you have dentures:

• With a soft brush, soft cloth or your finger, lightly massage your gums and brush your tongue.
  
  
• Floss and brush your remaining natural teeth at least twice a day.
  
  
• Occasionally rinse with a saline solution (salt water), especially if you have a canker as this will speed up healing. If your denture is causing an irritation, a simple adjustment will often remedy the situation.
  
  
• Examine your mouth at least once per month for anything out of the ordinary. If you have a concern, consult with a denturist or dentist. If necessary, you may be referred to an oral pathologist.

NOTE: Your remaining ridges may be the last dental structure you have. It is, therefore, important to care for them. Your ridges can be kept in good health by:

• practicing good oral hygiene
• leaving your dentures out at night or for a period during the day
• avoiding chewing on your front teeth
• maintaining an adequate diet
• having any necessary adjustments to your dentures done without delay.