How many times should I clean my dentures?
It is essential to treat your dentures like your natural teeth. They should be kept as clean as possible to prevent any complication. We usually suggest that you clean them thoroughly twice a day, and after eating when necessary.
How should I clean dentures?
The general rule is: brush, soak, brush. Always brush your dentures over a bowl of water or a folded towel in case you drop them. Clean your dentures before soaking, to help remove any food particles. Using fizzy (effervescent) denture cleaner will help remove stubborn stains and leave your denture feeling fresher.
Always follow the manufacturer’s directions. Then clean the dentures again, as you do with your natural teeth, being careful do not to scrub too hard as this may cause grooves and scratches on the surface.
Most dentists suggest using toothpaste and a small- to medium-headed toothbrush. Ensure you are cleaning all the surfaces of the dentures, especially the surface which touches your gums. This is important if you use any kind of denture fixative.
Like it is mentioned before, treat your dentures just like your natural teeth. So in order to prevent plaque from forming or even eliminating the plaque already formed, the following are the guidelines to be followed:
- Before even brushing, floss, so as to avoid losing the tiny bits of food items stuck in your teeth.
- After putting a pea sized amount of toothpaste, brush your teeth for two minutes at a stretch. An electric toothpaste comes in more handy than a traditional and conventional toothpaste.
- Pour coconut or olive oil inside your mouth, swishing it right about in your mouth for about half an hour approximately, to get rid of plaque.
- A natural, coarse cleanser, baking soda is the best ingredient to be included in a toothpaste. Results have shown over many years how much better a toothpaste containing baking soda is, than a toothpaste not containing baking soda.
What should I use to clean my dentures?
There are many different denture cleaning products in the market. However, most dentists still recommend a small headed toothbrushes to reach into the tough corners, or a soft nail brush, and ordinary soap. Soaking solutions can often help to eliminate staining and bacteria. We do not suggest that you use these solutions overnight.
Anything I should avoid?
Yes, there is something you should avoid. Do not to use any type of bleaching product to clean your dentures. Bleaching can cause a weakening of the denture as well as making it look unsightly. Do not use steamy hot water to soak the denture. Again, it can soften the denture causing it to break.
How to manage if I have a soft lining?
Some people have tender and sensitive gums and may need a softer lining made for their dentures. If you have one of these special linings, take your dentist suggestion before using any cleaning products or fixatives as some products can harm the lining.
What if I have a metal denture?
Some commercial cleaning products can harm metal dentures, so it is essential to discuss cleaning options with your dentist. If your denture has clasps, you need to take particular care and instructions when cleaning to avoid damage.
Are there any special products I should use?
There are some special products available in the market for cleaning your dentures, these are including special brushes, cleaning pastes, and soaking solutions. However, these products should be used carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Ask your dentist, If you are not sure which products to use.
Should I remove my dentures at night?
It is recommended to remove dentures at night which gives a chance to rest your mouth. When you remove your dentures, leave it with water to prevent any warping or cracking.
Can my dentist clean them?
Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque and tartar buildup on their dentures similar to natural teeth.In case of tartar buildup, professional cleaning by the dentist will have to be done.
What can I do about staining?
Like natural teeth, dentures get stained every day. This is especially true if you smoke, or consume a lot of tea, coffee or red wine. To prevent this you should remove stains with regular cleaning. However, more stubborn stains may take a little more care and clean, which your dentist should be able to help with.
Do I still need to see the dentist?
Dr. Priyanka Shingore, Dental Director of Sabka dentist says “It is necessary to visit your dentist regularly even if you don’t have any of your natural teeth.
Dentists do not only check teeth but also the other related parts such as soft parts of the mouth, including the tongue and cheeks. These examinations will allow the dentist can spot any infections, mouth conditions or even mouth cancer at the earliest stages”. So, contact your clinic or dentist they will be able to tell you how often you should visit.
Expert’s Opinions
- Dr. Zita Antao Dental Director of Sabka dentist says “Because they are removed at least twice a day, they need to be cleaned properly, leaving no food particles inside.”
One thought on “How to Clean Dentures”
Very helpful for old people who use dentures. good blog