How To Properly Care for Your Dentures

February 13, 2023

Dentures restore a good percentage of your chewing power

When you have lost all of your natural teeth, dentures are considered one of the most economical and efficient options for smile restoration. In the process of obtaining dentures, you and the dentist will work through several steps to make sure your dentures fit comfortably, work well, and look natural. With the proper level of care, dentures can easily last for many years. Take a look at a few tips to help you properly care for your new dentures. 


Clean Dentures and Your Mouth After a Meal 

Just as you would clean your natural teeth after a meal, your dentures should be cleaned as well. Once you are done eating, make an effort to clean your teeth and mouth to remove any food particles or residue. This will help prevent acidic foods and foods that can cause stains from breaking down the surface materials of your dentures. 


Handle Dentures with Care When They Are Out of Your Mouth 

Taking dentures out for cleaning or to give your mouth a rest are normal parts of having these prosthetic teeth. However, many people accidentally damage their dentures when they take them out. For example, even though modern denture materials are highly resilient, they can break or chip if you drop them on a hard surface. Always hold your dentures over a soft towel while cleaning a handle them with care. 


Avoid Extremely Crunchy Foods 

Dentures restore a good percentage of your chewing power. However, you do have to be mindful about avoiding certain foods, as biting down on something extremely crunchy could cause breakage. For example, chewing on a piece of hard candy, a popcorn kernel, or extra-crunchy bread may cause enough impact to cause breakage. Just remember, if a food is so crunchy that it could damage your natural teeth, there is a potential that it could damage dentures. 


Use Approved Solutions for Denture Cleaning 

Certain cleaning methods and agents should be avoided, so you don't accidentally damage the denture materials. Avoid: 


  • Scalding hot water 
  • Bleach or bleaching agents 
  • Whitening toothpaste, strips, or products 
  • Abrasive chemicals 


Trust only recommended products for cleaning your dentures, such as overnight solutions for soaking and denture-safe toothpaste. 



Find Out More About Smile Replacement with Dentures

Are you interested in obtaining dentures to restore your speech, smile, and chewing capacity? Reach out to our team to schedule a consultation to get started. 

Sleep Apnea and Oral Health: How Your Dentist Can Help You Sleep Better

August 18, 2025
Do you often wake up tired, even after a full night’s sleep? Or has your partner noticed loud snoring or pauses in your breathing? You might be dealing with sleep apnea —a condition that affects your rest and your overall health. The good news is that your dentist can help! At Rayford Dental in Spring, TX, we provide solutions that make sleeping easier and healthier. What Is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where your breathing stops and starts many times during the night. This means your brain and body don’t get enough oxygen, which can make you feel exhausted—even after a full night’s rest. How Do You Know If You Have Sleep Apnea? Common Symptoms: Loud, ongoing snoring Waking up gasping for air Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning Morning headaches Feeling very tired during the day The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Oral Health Many people don’t realize that dentists are often the first to notice signs of sleep apnea. During a dental exam, we may see: Teeth grinding (bruxism): linked to airway obstruction Worn-down enamel or jaw pain from clenching at night Dry mouth caused by open-mouth breathing Red or swollen gums from lack of oxygen flow Poor sleep also weakens your immune system, which can make gum disease and cavities worse. How Dentists Can Help with Sleep Apnea At Rayford Dental , we work closely with patients who struggle with sleep apnea. One of the most effective solutions we offer is a custom oral appliance . Benefits of Oral Appliances: Comfortable and easy to wear at night Keeps your airway open by adjusting your jaw position Quieter alternative to CPAP machines Small and portable for travel Unlike bulky CPAP devices, oral appliances are simple, discreet, and effective for many patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Why Treating Sleep Apnea Matters Ignoring sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems such as: High blood pressure Heart disease Type 2 diabetes Stroke Memory and concentration problems By addressing sleep apnea, you not only improve your oral health—you also protect your heart, brain, and overall well-being. Sleep Apnea Frequently Asked Questions Can a dentist really treat sleep apnea? Yes, dentists can provide oral appliances that keep your airway open during sleep. Are oral appliances as effective as CPAP? For many patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, yes—they are easier and more comfortable to use. What are the first signs of sleep apnea? Loud snoring, morning headaches, dry mouth, and daytime fatigue are common warning signs. Is sleep apnea dangerous if untreated? Yes, it can increase risks for heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep If you’ve noticed signs of sleep apnea—or if your partner has pointed them out—don’t ignore them. At Rayford Dental , our team in Spring, TX is here to help you breathe easier, sleep better, and live healthier. Schedule a consultation today and discover how a simple dental solution can change your nights—and your days—for the better.

Gum Disease: What It Is, How You Get It, and How to Treat It

July 20, 2025
Learn what gum disease is, how it develops, and the best treatments available to protect your oral health and prevent advanced periodontal issues.