How to Care for Your Dentures

Partial or complete dentures (removable teeth) can replace lost teeth, significantly improving the appearance of your smile. These false teeth are designed to look natural and are made from durable materials like acrylic and metal.

While dentures are not your natural teeth, they still require consistent cleaning and maintenance to keep them in good condition and support your overall oral health.

Whether you’ve had dentures for a while or are new to wearing them, it’s important to know how to clean them properly. Keep reading for tips on caring for your dentures, and remember, Your Community Dental offers affordable same-day dentures, so you don’t have to wait to restore your smile.

What’s the Best Way to Clean Your Dentures?

Just like natural teeth, dentures can accumulate plaque and food particles. Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on both dentures and natural teeth after eating and drinking. If left uncleaned, plaque buildup can lead to gum disease, bad breath, and potential damage to your dentures.

To keep your dentures clean and your mouth healthy, make sure you have these essentials:

  • A soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Water
  • Denture cleaning solution or mild soap
  • A soft towel

Brush your dentures at least once a day—ideally twice, in the morning and at night. However, avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive for dentures and cause scratches or cracks. Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for dentures.

While brushing is important, it’s only part of the care process. For long-term maintenance, you should also clean your dentures thoroughly each night after removal.

Cleaning Instructions

  1. Prepare: Place a soft, folded towel on your bathroom counter before removing your dentures. This will cushion them in case of accidental drops.
  2. Remove & Rinse: Take out your dentures and rinse them with warm water to remove loose debris.
  3. Brush Gently: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently brush your dentures with either a denture cleanser or mild soap and warm water. Brush all areas of the denture surface to loosen food particles, bacteria, and any adhesive. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
  4. Soak Overnight: If you’re going to bed, soak your dentures in lukewarm water or a denture-soaking solution to keep them moist and in shape. In the morning, rinse them before wearing.

Warning: Don’t soak your dentures in hot water, as the heat can alter their shape and make them less comfortable to wear.

How Often Should You Clean Your Dentures?

It’s essential to clean your dentures at least once a day. For the best results, brush them twice daily—once when you wake up and again before bed. Soak your dentures overnight to keep them from drying out.

Even though you don’t use toothpaste on dentures, you should still brush your gums and tongue twice daily with toothpaste. This helps keep your gums healthy and prevents bad breath.

If you wear partial dentures, don’t forget to brush and floss your remaining natural teeth. Additionally, using mouthwash can help maintain fresh breath and oral hygiene. You can remove your dentures before using mouthwash, or use a product designed for denture wearers.

Best Practices for Denture Maintenance

With proper care, dentures can last between 7 to 10 years. Follow these tips to ensure your dentures stay in top shape:

  • Rinse after meals: Remove and rinse your dentures with warm water after eating to prevent a buildup of food debris.
  • Handle with care: Dentures are fragile. When cleaning or removing them, do so over a soft surface or a sink filled with water to prevent breakage.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Don’t use toothpaste or whitening products on your dentures, as these can damage them.
  • Don’t sleep with your dentures in: Always remove your dentures before going to bed and soak them overnight in water or a mild solution.
  • Seek professional help for repairs: If your dentures break, don’t attempt to fix them yourself. Contact your dentist for repairs.

When to Call Your Dentist

Routine dental visits are important even if you wear dentures. Schedule regular checkups every six months to ensure your dentures fit properly and your oral health is maintained. Reach out to your dentist if your dentures:

  • Feel uncomfortable
  • Slip or no longer fit snugly
  • Make noise when you speak or eat
  • Appear worn or broken

Additionally, if you experience mouth sores, bleeding gums, or persistent bad breath, these may be signs that your dentures need adjustment.

Conclusion

Dentures can greatly improve your quality of life by enhancing your smile and boosting your confidence. However, maintaining them requires proper care. Clean your dentures daily, handle them with care, and never hesitate to contact your dentist if you have any concerns.

And if you’re in need of new dentures, Your Community Dental offers affordable same-day dentures, ensuring you won’t have to wait to restore your smile and confidence.