Artificial teeth, such as dentures, bridges, and dental implants, offer a transformative solution for those who have lost their natural teeth. These dental prosthetics restore functionality and improve aesthetics, allowing individuals to speak, chew, and smile with confidence. However, to maximize the lifespan of artificial teeth and maintain overall oral health, it is crucial to adopt a regular cleaning routine. Artificial teeth cleaning in Edmonton is readily available to help maintain the quality and hygiene of these dental prosthetics. This blog will discuss the importance of cleaning artificial teeth, the techniques used, and the benefits of professional artificial teeth cleaning in Edmonton for ensuring long-term oral health.
1. Why Is Artificial Teeth Cleaning Important?
Artificial teeth, while durable and resistant to decay, are not immune to other oral health issues. Regular cleaning is essential for several reasons:
a. Preventing Gum Disease
Artificial teeth, particularly dentures and implants, rest on or within the gums. If not cleaned properly, plaque and food particles can build up around the gum line, leading to inflammation, infections, and gum disease. Gum disease can compromise the fit of dentures and implants, leading to discomfort or the need for adjustments.
b. Avoiding Bad Breath
Food particles and bacteria can accumulate on artificial teeth, just like natural teeth, leading to bad breath or halitosis. Proper cleaning eliminates these particles and bacteria, ensuring fresh breath and better oral hygiene.
c. Prolonging the Life of Artificial Teeth
Cleaning your artificial teeth regularly helps extend their life by preventing the buildup of harmful substances that can degrade the material over time. Whether you wear dentures, bridges, or implants, proper care is essential for keeping them in good condition.
2. Different Types of Artificial Teeth and Cleaning Techniques
Various types of artificial teeth require specific cleaning methods to maintain their condition. Let’s explore how to clean dentures, dental implants, and bridges.
a. Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetics and require daily care to maintain cleanliness and prevent staining.
Steps for Cleaning Dentures:
- Rinse After Eating: Always remove and rinse dentures after meals to prevent food particles from becoming lodged between the appliance and your gums.
- Brush Daily: Use a soft-bristled denture brush and a non-abrasive cleanser specifically designed for dentures. Gently brush all surfaces, including the parts that touch your gums, to remove plaque and food residue.
- Soak Overnight: Dentures should be soaked in water or a denture-cleaning solution overnight to keep them moist and maintain their shape.
b. Dental Implants
Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. Although implants do not decay, they still require regular cleaning to prevent infections in the surrounding gums.
Steps for Cleaning Implants:
- Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the implants, focusing on the gum line to remove plaque.
- Use Special Floss: Floss designed specifically for implants is crucial for cleaning around the base of the implant and between adjacent natural teeth.
- Interdental Brushes: For additional care, interdental brushes can be used to clean areas that are difficult to reach with traditional floss or toothbrushes.
c. Dental Bridges
Bridges are used to fill gaps between natural teeth and can be fixed or removable. Cleaning around the bridge is essential to prevent plaque buildup.
Steps for Cleaning Bridges:
- Brush Twice Daily: Use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the bridge, paying close attention to the areas where the bridge meets the gum line.
- Flossing with a Threader: Since flossing can be difficult with a bridge, using a floss threader can help clean underneath the bridge to remove trapped food particles.
3. Professional Artificial Teeth Cleaning in Edmonton
While daily at-home care is essential, professional cleaning services for artificial teeth offer deeper cleaning that cannot be achieved with regular brushing and flossing alone. Edmonton is home to a range of dental clinics that specialize in cleaning artificial teeth, providing comprehensive care to prevent long-term oral health issues.
a. Routine Checkups
Professional checkups allow dentists to thoroughly examine your artificial teeth, clean hard-to-reach areas, and ensure that the prosthetics are fitting correctly. During these checkups, dental professionals will clean around the gum line and polish the artificial teeth, helping to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar.
b. Ultrasonic Cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaning is a common method used by dental professionals to clean dentures. This technique involves the use of high-frequency sound waves to dislodge debris and bacteria from the surface of the dentures, providing a deeper clean than traditional brushing methods.
c. Implant Maintenance
For individuals with dental implants, regular visits to the dentist are essential. Professional cleaning services in Edmonton include specialized tools that clean the surface of the implant, particularly at the gum line where plaque can accumulate.
4. Advantages of Professional Artificial Teeth Cleaning in Edmonton
While at-home care is necessary, visiting a dental professional for artificial teeth cleaning in Edmonton provides several key advantages:
a. Preventing Complications
Professional cleaning helps prevent gum disease, infections, and other oral health issues that may arise if artificial teeth are not properly maintained.
b. Prolonging the Life of Prosthetics
Deep cleaning helps preserve the integrity of artificial teeth, ensuring they last longer and function effectively.
c. Identifying Potential Issues Early
Regular professional cleanings allow your dentist to spot potential problems early, such as wear and tear on the artificial teeth, improper fit, or infections in the gums, allowing for timely treatment.
5. Tips for Long-Term Maintenance of Artificial Teeth
a. Avoid Staining Foods and Beverages
Just like natural teeth, artificial teeth can stain if exposed to certain foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and wine. It’s a good practice to rinse your mouth after consuming these beverages to prevent staining.
b. Handle Dentures with Care
If you wear dentures, always handle them carefully to avoid dropping and breaking them. When cleaning, do so over a soft surface, such as a towel, to cushion any accidental falls.
c. Stay Hydrated
Dry mouth can cause discomfort and irritation in individuals with artificial teeth. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain moisture in your mouth and keep your gums healthy.
6. Cost of Artificial Teeth Cleaning in Edmonton
The cost of artificial teeth cleaning in Edmonton varies based on the type of prosthetics and the complexity of the cleaning required. Routine checkups and professional cleaning for dentures are typically covered by most dental insurance plans. However, more specialized services, such as ultrasonic cleaning for dentures or implant maintenance, may incur additional costs.
It is advisable to consult with your dental clinic in Edmonton to determine specific costs and insurance coverage for artificial teeth cleaning services.
Conclusion
Artificial teeth are a significant investment, and maintaining them through proper cleaning is essential for ensuring long-term oral health. Whether you have dentures, implants, or bridges, regular at-home care and professional artificial teeth cleaning in Edmonton will keep your prosthetics in top shape. By following proper cleaning techniques and visiting your dentist regularly, you can protect your artificial teeth, maintain your oral health, and enjoy a bright, healthy smile for years to come.
FAQs About Artificial Teeth Cleaning in Edmonton
Q: How often should I visit a dentist for artificial teeth cleaning?
A: It’s recommended to visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleaning, but your dentist may suggest more frequent visits depending on your oral health needs.
Q: Can artificial teeth stain like natural teeth?
A: Yes, artificial teeth can stain over time, especially if exposed to dark beverages like coffee, tea, and wine. Regular cleaning and professional polishing can help minimize staining.
Q: Is it safe to use regular toothpaste on artificial teeth?
A: It’s best to use non-abrasive toothpaste specifically designed for dentures or dental implants to avoid damaging the surface of the artificial teeth.
Q: Do I need to remove my dentures overnight?
A: Yes, removing your dentures at night gives your gums time to rest and prevents irritation. It also allows for proper cleaning and soaking of the dentures.
Q: What should I do if my artificial teeth don’t fit properly?
A: If your dentures or implants no longer fit comfortably, visit your dentist for an adjustment. Ill-fitting prosthetics can cause irritation, sores, and infections if not corrected.
