A bright, healthy smile isn’t just for those with natural teeth. Dentures deserve just as much care and attention to keep them sparkling and functional. Proper cleaning is the key to maintaining your dentures’ comfort, appearance and durability, all while safeguarding your oral health.
Whether you are new to dentures or looking to refine your cleaning routine, this blog will walk you through everything you need to know for keeping your denture in tip-top shape.
- Rinse your dentures after meals – When you eat, remove your dentures and rinse them thoroughly with water. By doing this, food particles can be removed and stains can be prevented. Rinsing immediately after eating can reduce the chance of food particles settling into the denture material and prevent bacteria from accumulating.
- Use a denture brush – The purpose of a denture brush is to clean dentures, and it is more effective than regular toothbrushes. The brush has softer bristles and a larger head to cover more surface area. Using a denture brush, gently brush all the surfaces of your dentures.
- To prevent bacteria from growing and scratching the surface of the dentures, it is crucial to use a non-abrasive cleanser.
- Apply denture cleaner – Choose a denture cleaner or toothpaste that is specifically designed for dentures. Your dentures may be damaged if you use regular toothpaste that is too abrasive.
- Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the amount of cleaner to use and the length of brushing. It is important to choose a cleaner that’s appropriate for your type of dentures, whether they are full or partial.
- Soak dentures overnight – Ensure that your dentures are removed every night and are soaked in a denture cleaning solution or a mixture of water and denture cleaner. Not only does this aid in cleaning off any remaining debris, but it also keeps the dentures saturated, which prevents them from warping.
- It’s important to follow the soaking instructions provided by your denture cleaning product. It is recommended to soak dentures for at least 6-8 hours or overnight.
- Clean your mouth – Clean your mouth while taking care of your dentures. Scrub your gums, tongue and mouth roof with a soft brush. As I experienced, this helps remove bacteria and prevent gum infections, which is important for overall oral health.
- Avoid harsh chemicals – Don’t use bleach, alcohol or other harsh chemicals to clean your dentures. If these substances enter your mouth, they could cause damage to the denture material and possibly cause health problems.
- Handle dentures carefully – To prevent dropping your dentures while cleaning them, make sure to handle them gently. If dentures are dropped, they may break due to their fragility. Prevent this by cleaning your dentures over a folded towel or in a sink filled with water to absorb any impact if they fall.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups – Having regular dental visits is necessary to maintain oral health and ensure that your dentures fit properly. Your dentist can examine the condition of your dentures and provide professional cleaning if necessary during these check-ups.
- Keep your dentures moist – It’s important to keep your dentures moist when not in use. To keep them from getting dry and distorted, store them in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water. Do not store dentures in hot water, as it can damage the material.
Based on research, the above steps can ensure that your dentures stay clean, comfortable and in good condition. Regular care extends the lifespan of your dentures and enhances your dental hygiene and overall well-being.
