You must take care of your dentures in the same way you do your natural teeth. Because of the material that dentures are made up of, plaque has the capacity to form and spread on dentures in the same way natural teeth do. Not keeping proper care of dentures causes the whiteness and brightness of them to diminish significantly. The process of cleaning dentures is slightly different than that of normal teeth. Learn below how to properly cleanse your dentures.
Can You Use Toothpaste to Clean Your Dentures?
You may think that since toothpaste is a staple in healthy oral care routines for natural teeth that it is the best solution to clean dentures as well. This is actually false. Toothpaste is not intended to be used for denture cleaning and as a result can actually be harmful to your dentures. Opt for a denture cleanser and brush instead. Cleaning with a normal toothbrush and toothpaste can be abrasive and cause damages, leading to an increased chance of bacteria forming and a displeasing look to your dentures. Abrasive toothpaste can also increase stain adherence on dentures. Try to avoid other conventional cleaning products such as soap, bleach, and vinegar.
How To Clean Your Dentures The Right Way
Below we have listed out a step by step guide to keeping dentures nice and clean:
- Rinse dentures under warm water with extra care, preferably letting water build up underneath so they will not be damaged if they are dropped during cleaning.
- Instead of regular toothpaste and brush, use denture-specific cleanser and brush to avoid any sort of damage that could result from the roughness of the latter tools.
- Continue using warm water to brush the dentures and be sure to softley.
- Once finished cleansing your dentures, you can now use normal toothpaste to brush your gum line, tongue and any natural teeth you may have.
- End off your cleaning routine by rinsing with mouthwash to give yourself extra protection against plaque causing bacteria and freshen your breath to its full potential.
Denture Tips & Tricks
Proper care and use of dentures will help maximize their effectiveness and longevity so you can utilize them to their fullest capabilities. Here are some extra tips you may want to implement.
- Cleanse Your Dentures Daily – Now that you know all the proper ways to clean your dentures, be sure to consistently clean them every day to help ensure plaque doesn’t form.
- Rinse Consistently After Eating – When able to after eating, be sure to take out your dentures and rinse warm water over them to remove left over food debris.
- Remember To Soak Your Denture Overnight – Dentures are able to keep the shape of your mouth by staying moist, so it is important to soak them nightly in whatever solution is recommended. It’s alsy healthy for your gums to keep dentures out at night.
- Keep Up With Dental Visits – It is important for your dentist to stay up to date with your oral health status so they can examine your overall oral health along with your dentures, and make any adjustments as needed as time goes on.
Contact our office if you have any questions or concerns about your dentures.
