A facility shall assure that dentures are ______ by the resident.

The requirement for dentures to be retained by the resident emphasizes the importance of residents maintaining possession and personal responsibility for their own dental appliances. This is crucial not only for the comfort and dignity of the resident but also for their overall health. Dentures that are retained enhance the resident's ability to eat, speak, and engage in social activities without the embarrassment or discomfort that might arise from not having access to them.

When dentures are retained, it encourages residents to be actively involved in their own care, fostering a sense of independence and personal autonomy. Moreover, maintaining ownership of dentures can also help prevent loss or misplacement, which is a common concern in nursing facilities where items can easily be mixed up or misplaced.

In the context of nursing home regulations, ensuring that residents retain their own dentures supports personalized care and aligns with the resident's rights to manage their own personal property effectively. Thus, the emphasis on retention is not just about physical possession but also about enhancing the quality of life for residents.