Denture Cleaning Tips

Proper denture cleaning is essential for maintaining oral health, preventing stains, and ensuring the longevity and comfort of your dentures. By adhering to a consistent cleaning routine, you can prolong the lifespan of your dentures and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable experience with them. In this post we will dive into the correct steps you can take to keep your dentures like new as well how to store them overnight.

The 7 steps to cleaning dentures....

Step 1: Prepare the cleaning area

• Find a clean, well-lit area with a basin or bowl to work in.

• Place a soft towel or cloth in the basin to prevent dentures from accidentally dropping and breaking.

Step 2: Rinse dentures after meals

• After eating, remove your dentures and rinse them under running water to remove any loose food particles.

Step 3: Brush your dentures

• Use a soft-bristle denture brush or a toothbrush specifically designed for denture cleaning.

• Apply a non-abrasive denture cleaner or mild dish soap to the brush.

• Gently brush all surfaces of your dentures, including the teeth, gums, and any metal clasps or attachments.

• Pay special attention to areas with stains or plaque buildup.

Step 4: Rinse thoroughly

• Rinse your dentures again under running water to remove any residue from the cleaning products.

• Ensure that no cleaning agents remain on the denture surfaces, as they may cause oral irritation.

Step 5: Soak overnight

• Submerge your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or plain water overnight.

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the specific soaking solution you're using.

• Soaking helps to remove stubborn stains, kill bacteria, and keep the dentures moist.

Step 6: Rinse before wearing

• Before wearing your dentures in the morning, thoroughly rinse them under running water to remove any traces of the soaking solution.

Step 7: Clean your mouth

• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush or a moistened washcloth to clean your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth.

• This step helps maintain good oral hygiene and removes plaque.

Note: Avoid using toothpaste, hot water, bleach, or abrasive cleaners on your dentures, as they can damage the denture material.

Time and time again, I notice patients using toothpaste on their denture and they wonder why their denture teeth are flatter then a table board. Toothpaste is not recommended for cleaning dentures because it can be too abrasive and harsh on the denture materials. Dentures are made from materials such as acrylic, porcelain, or composite resin, which are not as strong as natural teeth. The abrasive nature of toothpaste can cause microscopic scratches on the denture surface, making it more prone to stains, plaque buildup, and bacterial growth. Over time, these scratches can affect the appearance and integrity of the dentures.

Additionally, toothpaste typically contains ingredients like whitening agents, tartar control chemicals, and flavours that are designed for natural teeth. These ingredients may not be suitable for denture materials and can cause discolouration, damage, or alterations in taste.

Instead of toothpaste, it is recommended to use a non-abrasive denture cleaner specifically formulated for denture cleaning. These cleaners are gentler on denture materials while effectively removing stains, plaque, and bacteria. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using denture cleaning products.

Choosing the right denture cleaning products:

Selecting appropriate denture cleaning products is crucial for maintaining clean and safe dentures. Consider the following factors when choosing:

1. Denture cleaner type:
   

   • Denture cleaning tablets: Effervescent tablets that dissolve in water and provide a thorough cleaning.

   • Denture cleaning paste/gel: Designed specifically for denture cleaning and effectively remove stains and bacteria.

   • Denture cleaning liquids: These solutions can be used for soaking and rinsing dentures.

1. Compatibility with denture materials:
   

   • Check if the cleaner is suitable for your denture material (e.g., acrylic, porcelain, flexible).

   • Some denture cleaners may be too harsh for certain materials, causing discolouration or damage.

1. Safety and non-toxicity:
   

   • Opt for denture cleaners that are labeled as safe for oral use.

   • Look for products approved by dental associations or recommended by dentists.

1. Ease of use:
   

   • Consider the convenience of the cleaning method (brushing, soaking, or a combination).

   • Ensure that the cleaning process fits well into your daily routine.

1. Effectiveness:
   

   • Read reviews or seek recommendations to determine the effectiveness of the denture cleaner.

   • Look for products that specifically mention removing stains, preventing plaque buildup, and killing bacteria.

Proper storage and overnight care of dentures are crucial for maintaining their condition. Follow these guidelines:

1. Use a denture-specific storage container with ventilation holes.

2. Soak dentures in a denture soaking solution or plain water overnight.

3. Clean dentures thoroughly before storage.

4. Keep dentures moist to prevent drying out.

5. Store dentures in a safe place, away from children or pets.

6. Clean the storage container regularly.