Swimming with Dentures

Swimming with Dentures - Dental Health Care Best Ideas

When living with dentures for the first time, it often takes a while to become truly comfortable partaking in the same activities you enjoyed before. While eating and speaking are usually the two main topics people consider, swimming with dentures is another consideration people should have in mind when making the switch. While swimming with dentures is more than possible, it is important to keep some key considerations in mind for maximum comfort.

Tips for Swimming with Dentures

Use a Denture Adhesive

While it is perfectly fine to swim with dentures, there is a chance that the water can loosen the suction that keeps your dentures attached. The last thing you want while swimming is to see your dentures floating away. With this in mind, we recommend applying an adhesive before swimming to keep your dentures nice and secure inside your mouth. Denture adhesives are available as pastes, creams, and powders, with waterproof options available.

Travel with a Denture Care Kit

If you are planning on traveling and enjoying the sea or the luxury pool at your resort, it pays to be prepared. There is nothing worse than suffering issues with your dentures and not having access to immediate treatment or supplies. Before you travel organize a care kit that contains adhesives, cleaners, soaking tablets, and any other care products you might need. By taking this kit with you wherever you go, you will always be prepared if any issues arise.

Avoid Tooth Squeeze

While swimming with dentures is typically fine, special considerations must be made if you are planning on going scuba diving. “Tooth squeeze” is a condition that can occur during scuba diving, which sees the air inside your teeth contract to match the outside pressure. If this occurs it can cause serious damage to your dentures. If you plan to go scuba diving in the future, we recommend booking a consultation with your dental prosthetist first to check that your dentures are suitable for such an activity.

Don’t Over Chlorinate Your Pool

While chlorine is useful for disinfecting your pool and eliminating any bacteria or viruses present in the water, using it too much can cause problems. If you are planning on swimming with dentures in your backyard pool, exposure to too much chlorine can result in the denture materials becoming weaker. This can lead to discoloration, corrosion, and even structural damage. So, if you are the proud owner of your very own pool, make sure you lay off the chlorine for the sake of your dentures.

Clean Your Dentures After Swimming

To be extra safe, it is recommended that you always clean your dentures after you go swimming. This is to remove any contaminants that may be present, while it also helps to mitigate the damage caused by chlorine if you are swimming in a pool. Your usual denture cleaning technique should be enough, while we also recommend rinsing the dentures with water to wash away any traces of chlorine.

Invest in Implant Retained Dentures

While there are multiple options available to you when first choosing your dentures, implant retained dentures are the best choice for those who desire a set and forget solution. These dentures are anchored onto permanent dental implants in your gums, allowing them to stay firmly in place. This is extremely useful if you are planning on swimming with dentures, as they ensure your dentures remain secure no matter how rigorous you like to swim.

Speak to the Experts

If you still feel wary about going swimming while wearing dentures, then there is no better way to alleviate your fears than speaking to your dental prosthetist. They will educate you on any risks posed by swimming with your dentures, while also providing advice on the best way to proceed. If you experience any problems with your dentures after swimming, a visit to a professional will also help you diagnose and fix the issue.

SOURCE: https://denturehealthcare.com.au/swimming-with-dentures/