All of your natural teeth have been replaced with a full set of dentures. Since your smile is inorganic, you don’t have to visit the dentist anymore, right?
Not quite.
This is actually a common misconception. Just because you don’t have any natural teeth doesn’t mean you don’t need checkups and cleanings. Plus, there are other oral issues a dentist can screen for and treat. Keep reading to learn why you should still schedule at least two appointments per year.
Clean Your Dentures & Gums
Plaque can build up on your gums, tongue, and inner-cheeks regardless of what type of teeth you have. It can also hide in the space between your dentures and gums. Your toothbrush, floss, and mouth rinse can accomplish a lot, but once plaque hardens, it takes a dentist to remove it. During a routine checkup and cleaning, your dentist will clean both your gums and your dentures to help prevent gum disease and infection.
Check for Oral Health Problems
Make no mistake, cavities and teeth-related issues are a big part of what dentists look for during biannual checkups. But they also keep an eye out for oral cancer, gum disease, denture stomatitis (a common yeast infection), sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, and more! The oral cavity is a complex system with many parts, so there’s still plenty of things for your dentist to check for.
Adjust Your Dentures
Dentures are intended to be a permanent restoration. That said, they do need adjustments and repairs from time to time. As you age, the shape of your mouth changes, and your dentures might not fit as well as they used to. Left unaddressed, denture misalignment can cause serious problems like gum disease, sores, and accelerated jawbone loss. Damage, meanwhile, can shorten the lifespan of your dentures or even cut your gums.
As a patient with dentures, your dentist will always examine your restoration to make sure it still fits well and functions properly.
Overall, visiting the dentist when you have a full set of dentures comes with many of the same benefits you would expect if you had 100% natural teeth. Your dentist will help keep your mouth clean to lower your risk of harmful conditions, check for oral health problems, and adjust your restoration as needed. If you haven’t already, make sure to schedule your next checkup and cleaning today!
About the Author
Dr. Jay Lopez is an expert when it comes to dental prosthetics like dental implants and dentures. When you visit him for routine appointments, he’ll carefully examine your dentures and general oral health to make sure your smile is in tip-top shape. He’s also happy to go into detail about any treatment recommendations or care tips he provides. To schedule a checkup and cleaning with Dr. Lopez, call 520-886-8090.