Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth: Recommended Daily Oral Regiment

According to the American Dental Association, over 120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth. To rectify this, a partial denture for one missing tooth may be a solution. If you are considering getting a partial denture or already have one, it is important to understand the proper way to care for this dental appliance so that it fits properly and is free of issues.

How to clean your partial denture with a toothbrush

Taking care of a partial denture for one missing tooth is somewhat similar to caring for other teeth in that you should brush it regularly to avoid the buildup of plaque, calculus, and stains. There are a few key differences, though, that you should be aware of.

Before you begin to clean your partial denture, remove it. Do not clean this appliance while it is still in your mouth. Be sure you are holding it over a towel or a sink with water in it. If you drop it, you will want it to remain undamaged.

First, carefully rinse the partial denture so all food particles and adhesive materials are removed from it. It is now safe to begin brushing it.

There are special brushes designed for dentures, though these are not always necessary, and you may be able to use a regular soft-bristled toothbrush – stay away from the firm or hard bristles because these can damage your dental appliance.

Unlike regular teeth, you should never use toothpaste to brush a partial denture, as this can damage it. Instead, use mild dish soap or hand soap.

Run the brush under water and apply your cleaner and gently brush the partial denture to avoid damaging the plastic or metal parts. Before inserting the device, brush the rest of your mouth to stimulate blood flow and remove plaque.

How to care for your partial denture

You will need to do more than the occasional cleaning to ensure your partial denture for one missing tooth is properly cared for. Before you go to bed, place your denture in a cup full of soaking solution or warm water to sit overnight. This will keep it clean, prevent it from drying out, and help it keep its shape and malleability when you are not using it. Do not ever place the partial denture in hot water, as this may warp it.

If you notice damage on your partial denture, do not try to fix it yourself. Avoid do-it-yourself kits or glue, as you run the risk of irreparable damage. If your partial denture no longer fits, do not depend on adhesives. Instead, leave this task up to your dentist, who will generally be able to adjust or repair it.