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How to Clean Dentures

Even though dentures aren't real teeth, it's important to keep them free of bacteria, and stains. Just like natural teeth, your dentures need to be cleaned daily to remove food particles, prevent plaque accumulation, and avoid permanent stains. 

Proper denture care is essential for avoiding problems like plaque buildup and tartar formation, which can contribute to bad breath. So, knowing how to clean dentures and caring for them is very important if you are a denture user. 

Why is it Important to Know How to Clean Dentures?

Just as we brush our teeth after waking up and eating, dentures also require regular cleaning. 

The main reason for this is bacteria. When food and beverages interact with the mouth, a multitude of bacteria quickly multiply, settling on the teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks, and, of course, the dentures themselves. 

Equally important is maintaining the appearance of the dentures. These removable appliances are intended for long-term use but can become stained by food, drinks, and medications. 

A few other reasons why it is important to know how to clean dentures include:

  • Reducing bad breath
  • Prevention of plaque and tartar buildup
  • Keeping your dentures looking their best
  • Avoiding buildup accumulation and ensuring proper fit
  • Avoiding costly denture repairs

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Dentures Daily

A Step by Step Guide on How to Clean Dentures Daily

Step 1: Prepare Your Bathroom

Begin by setting up your bathroom to clean your dentures. Fill the sink with warm water and roll up a towel to place on the edge. Additionally, put another towel on the floor, especially if it's tiled or made of stone, to catch any dentures if they fall.

Step 2: Loosen the Denture

Use warm water to help loosen the denture adhesive. Gargling with warm water can make it easier to remove your dentures.

Step 3: Remove Your Dentures

Start with the bottom denture by gently holding it between your thumb and middle finger and wiggling it back and forth to loosen it. Once it starts to come away, gently pull it out. Repeat the process for the top denture, pushing it up and outwards carefully to avoid hurting your gums.

Step 4: Rinse the Denture

Rinse your denture under running water to remove any loose food particles.

Step 5: Brush the Denture

Clean your denture with a denture brush or a soft regular toothbrush using water, denture paste, or non-abrasive toothpaste. Avoid abrasive toothpaste to prevent damage.

Step 6: Remove Adhesive Residue

Gargle with warm salt water to remove any adhesive residue from your mouth. Use a clean washcloth to wipe your gums and the roof of your mouth, then rinse with warm water. For stubborn residue, you can gently brush your gums with a very soft toothbrush. If you have a partial denture, remember to brush your natural teeth as well.

Step 7: Soak the Dentures Overnight

Place your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or water overnight. You can use fast-acting cleansers before soaking, following the instructions on the product. For partial dentures, use a solution specifically designed for them.

Step 8: Rinse Before Replacing

Before putting your dentures back in the morning, rinse them thoroughly with water.

How to Clean Dentures with Deep Cleaning & Maintenance

While daily cleaning is essential, it’s also crucial to incorporate a weekly or bi-weekly deep cleaning routine for your dentures. Daily cleaning sessions alone aren’t sufficient for your dentures; instead, use specialized denture cleaning solutions. 

Denture cleaning tablets are effective at removing bacteria, plaque, and even stubborn stains.

These tablets dissolve in water, creating a cleaning solution. Follow the instructions by immersing your denture in the solution for a few minutes. Afterward, you can remove the denture, which will have been thoroughly cleaned and refreshed thanks to the tablet’s unique formula.

If you need advice on selecting the right cleaning products or are unsure about denture care, consult your dentist. They can recommend the best cleaning solutions and tools tailored to your specific type of denture.

Bonus Tips on How to Keep Your Dentures Clean

  • To avoid food debris and particles accumulating on your dentures, be sure to remove and rinse them with warm water after eating and drinking. 
  • Since dentures are delicate and can break easily, handle them carefully and take your time during cleaning. 
  • Always clean your dentures over a sink filled with water or on a folded towel to prevent damage if they fall.
  • Don’t use regular toothpaste or teeth whitening products, as abrasive toothpaste can scratch your dentures, and whitening products may alter their color.
  • Do not wear your dentures while sleeping. 
  • Soak your dentures overnight in warm or cool water, as hot water can distort their shape.
  • If your dentures break, contact your dentist instead of trying to repair them yourself, as this could cause further damage.
  • When using denture adhesive, follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the recommended amount. Remove adhesive from your dentures each night with a soft-bristled toothbrush, mild soap, and water.

Conclusion

It's important to recognize that maintaining your oral cavity and knowing how to clean dentures is as essential as regular preventive dental check-ups. Regular cleaning not only prolongs the lifespan of your dentures but also supports your overall oral health.

Even though dentures are not natural teeth but rather prosthetic devices, they still require consistent dental visits.

If it's been some time since your last visit, now is the perfect opportunity to schedule an appointment. Schedule a consultation with Stoney Trail Dental and get personalized advice for both daily and additional denture care.

Book your appointment today. 

FAQs

How often should I clean my dentures?

It's crucial to care for your dentures with the same attention as you would your natural teeth. Keeping them clean helps prevent gum inflammation and bacterial or fungal infections. We generally advise cleaning your dentures thoroughly at least once daily and after meals if necessary.

Can a professional team clean my dentures?

Similar to natural teeth, dentures can also accumulate tartar if plaque is not adequately removed. When plaque interacts with saliva, it can harden into tartar. Unlike your natural teeth, removing this tartar on your own can be challenging, and over time, it can make your dentures uncomfortable and unsightly. Your dental team can address this issue by using specialized professional cleaning equipment to effectively remove the tartar.

Gurshant

Medically reviewed by Dr. Gurshant Grewal - a Registered Dentist on September 18, 2024

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