Dentures can help restore confidence, comfort, and functionality after tooth loss. But they require regular care and attention to stay in good shape. Your dentures are vulnerable to plaque buildup, just like natural teeth. While artificial teeth won’t decay or develop cavities, plaque buildup can increase your risk of gum disease and cause other oral health problems.
The right cleaning routine and maintenance tips may extend the life of your dentures and keep your smile healthy and bright for years to come. Our denture care guide covers everything you need to know about cleaning and caring for your dentures so they look and feel great for years to come.
Tip #1: Brush dentures daily
Brush your dentures at least once a day to get rid of stubborn food particles and plaque. Brushing twice a day (morning and night) or after meals may be better for some people.
Start by rinsing your dentures under clean running water. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a cleaning brush designed specifically for dentures, along with a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Use gentle circular motions to clean away any plaque, food, and denture adhesive residue. Remember to clean all areas of your dentures, not just the teeth.
It’s important to take your dentures out when you clean them. It’s not safe to brush your dentures with dental cleansers while they’re in your mouth. Plus, you may miss food or plaque on the denture base.
Tip #2: Avoid harsh cleaning products
Dentures may do the hard job of chewing your favorite foods, but they’re quite delicate and should be kept away from harsh cleaning agents. Here’s what to avoid with denture care:
- Stiff bristled brushes: Harsh brushes and cleaning tools can be abrasive and damaging for your dentures.
- Whitening toothpastes: Peroxide-based whitening toothpastes are designed for natural teeth and may not work on dentures.
- Bleach: Bleaching chemicals can discolor and weaken your dentures.
- Chlorine: Denture solutions containing chlorine can corrode and tarnish any metal components on your dentures (like clasps).
- Hot water: Many people use hot water to sterilize and clean personal items, but it’s not suitable for dentures. Hot water can cause your dentures to warp and change shape.
Stick to mild cleaning agents recommended by your dentist for your dentures.
Tip #3: Soak dentures when not in use
Your dentist may advise you to take your dentures out when you sleep. This protects them from slipping out or cracking when you sleep on your side. So, what do you do with your dentures when you’re not using them? Dentures need to stay moist to retain their shape, so the right storage technique is essential. Soak them in water or a mild denture solution overnight. You can use antibacterial denture solution tablets that destroy bacteria on the surface of your dentures and help prevent odors. Stick to the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use these products. Rinse off the solution before placing dentures in your mouth.
Tip #4: Treat dentures with care
Dentures are designed to be durable and sturdy, but they’re not indestructible. If you drop them, they might crack or break and become unusable. Here are some tips to take care of your dentures:
- Hold your dentures over a folded towel or bowl of water when cleaning them in case they slip from your hands.
- Avoid hard foods like raw carrots, nuts, and hard candies. Biting these foods can put pressure on your dentures and cause them to crack.
- Citric acid in fruits like oranges, grapefruit, and lemons may damage your dentures. You can still enjoy your favorite fruits, but consume them in moderation.
- Tea, coffee, and red wine can potentially stain and discolor your dentures. Limit your consumption of these drinks to keep your smile bright and flawless.
- Toothpicks and dental scrapers can scratch your dentures when not used properly. Stick to soft toothbrushes for at-home cleaning or ask your dentist if professional cleaning is available.
After you get dentures in Miami, taking care of them doesn’t have to be complicated. With daily cleaning, regular checkups, and gentle handling, you can extend the life of your dentures and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable smile. If you’re ever unsure about how your dentures should fit or feel, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental provider for guidance.
