A Simple Guide to Denture Maintenance

How to Clean Dentures

Food and plaque stick to natural teeth and dentures when you eat and drink. If you do not clean your dentures, plaque builds up and may eventually lead to bad breath and even gum disease. Therefore, cleaning your dentures each night is essential for oral health.

You will need water, a soft-bristled brush, a soft towel, and a gentle soap or denture cleaning solution for the cleaning process. Follow the instructions below to ensure a thorough cleaning.

• Place the towel on the bathroom counter before you remove your dentures. If they drop accidentally, the towel provides a cushion. Alternatively, you can remove your dentures over a sink of water.
• Rinse your dentures with warm water after removing them from your mouth.
• Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the dentures and rid them of bacteria, plaque, and food particles. Soft-bristled brushes are gentle and will not leave the surface of your dentures with scratches. Avoid toothpaste as toothpaste contains abrasive materials that could eventually scratch the surface of your dentures and cause cracks.
• Soak your dentures in denture solution or warm water overnight. Do not let them dry out because this causes them to become more brittle and lose shape. Avoid hot water, as heat can alter the shape of your dentures.
• Rinse your dentures before you wear them in the morning.

Following these steps nightly to maintain the quality of your dentures and increase their longevity.

Further Tips for Cleaning Your Dentures

As highlighted, you should clean your dentures at least once daily. As you clean your dentures, brush your teeth with toothpaste at least twice daily to prevent bad breath and keep the gums healthy. If you use denture adhesive to put the dentures in place, ensure you use the right amount according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Additionally, you can rinse your mouthwash designed for denture wearers. Avoid sleeping in your dentures because doing so encourages the neglect of cleaning and the growth of bacteria.

If your dentures break, avoid trying to fix them yourself with over-the-counter glues. Instead, let your dentist know and he or she will repair your dentures and save them from further tooth damage. If they have metal attachments, avoid soaking in products with chlorine that may corrode or tarnish the metal.

Also, avoid any whitening products and products with peroxide or bleach. Remember, you cannot whiten dentures, and these ingredients may end up discoloring or weakening them.

When You Should Contact Your Dentist

You should schedule a dental checkup with your dentist at least every six months. However, if you have dentures, you can also visit your dentist if:

• Your dentures slip or no longer fit properly
• You feel uncomfortable in your dentures
• Your dentures are noisy when you eat or talk
• Your dentures are broken or look worn
• You develop mouth sores, bad breath, or bleeding gums

You may need realignment if you visit the dentist for dentures that no longer fit well. Realignment is a procedure that refits the base of your dentures and gives you a better fit. Alternatively, you may need a replacement, depending on the condition of your dentures. Your dentist will recommend a replacement if the dentures are worn out or if your soft and hard tissues have changed.

You should consult a professional if you experience problems with your teeth or dentures. Get in touch with us at Advanced Dental Care for expert denture solutions.