Partial dentures and oral health

Good oral hygiene helps to prevent dental problems - mainly plaque and calculus which are the main causes of gum disease and tooth decay.

Partial denture design also has a direct influence on oral health.

N.B - You should remove your dentures and clean them separately.

• Dental plaque is a soft whitish deposit that forms on the surface of teeth. It forms when bacteria combine with food and saliva. Plaque contains many types of bacteria. You can remove plaque by good oral hygiene.
• Calculus, sometimes called tartar, is hardened calcified plaque. It sticks firmly to teeth. Generally, it can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist with special instruments.
• Tooth decay is when holes form in parts of the enamel of a tooth. A main cause of caries is due to a build up of plaque. The bacteria in the plaque react with sugars and starches in food to form acids. The acids are kept next to the teeth by the sticky plaque and 'dissolve' the tooth enamel. If you have tooth decay you may need fillings, crowns or inlays.
• Gum disease  is an infection or inflammation of the tissues that surround the teeth. Most cases of gum disease are related to plaque. Plaque contains many different types of bacteria and a build up of some types of bacteria are associated with developing gum disease. Depending on the severity, gum disease is generally divided into two types - gingivitis and periodontitis.
  • Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums. Most types of gingivitis are caused by plaque.
  • Periodontitis (Gum Disease) occurs if gingivitis becomes worse and progresses to involve the tissue that joins the teeth to the gums.

Gum disease is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults. It is also a main cause of bad breath. Gum disease is often treatable.

Routine oral hygiene

It is important to adopt a regular habit of good oral hygiene.By brushing and floss your teeth every day.

Tooth brushing

Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Many people find that an electric toothbrush is more effective.

It is usually advised that you should use a toothpaste that contains fluoride.

Flossing

Floss your teeth at least once a day after brushing, and preferably twice a day. If you are not sure how to floss, then ask your dentist, dental hygienist or Clinical Dental Technician.

There are several types of dental floss available choose the one you are most comfortable using.

The gums may bleed a little when you first begin to floss. This should settle within a few days. If it persists then see a Dentist as regular bleeding after brushing or flossing teeth may indicate early gum disease.

Other things you can do

• Some people also use an antiseptic mouthwash each day to help prevent gum disease. In particular, for those who are unable to use a toothbrush effectively.
• Many people also clean their tongue after cleaning their teeth. You can do this with a toothbrush or buy a special plastic tongue scraper from pharmacies.
• If you smoke, try to to stop. Smoking is a major risk factor for developing gum disease.
• Eat a well balanced healthy diet. Limit the amount of sugary foods and drinks that you have.Sugary foods in the mouth are the main foods that bacteria need to produce the acid which causes tooth decay.
• If children need medicines, wherever possible use sugar free medicines.
• Some people chew sugar free gum after each meal. Chewing gum increases the flow of saliva. Saliva helps to 'flush' the mouth to help clear any debris remaining from the meal.

Some other points

• Children should be taught good oral hygiene at a young age.
• Have regular dental checks at intervals recommended by your Dentist.
• A Dentist or Therapist can detect a build up of plaque and remove calculus.
• Mild gingivitis can be detected and treated to prevent the more severe gum problems.
• A dentist can also advise about sealing the surface of childrens teeth to help prevent decay. 

Further advice

Your should keep your regular appointments with your Dentist and seek advice if you have a concern about your teeth or gums.