Dental Hygiene is Important, Even with Dentures
The primary goal of wearing dentures is to allow people who have lost a few, or all of their teeth, to have a bright smile, speak with confidence, and eat naturally. These things are achievable when your dentures are comfortable, well cleaned and properly maintained. Mastering how to clean your dentures goes a long way in maintaining excellent day-to-day hygiene. It also prolongs the lifespan of your dentures and enables them to fit well.
Why is Cleaning Your Dentures Important?
Lowers Bacteria Buildup
Dentures have a rigid appearance, but they are made of a common material called acrylic that is full of tiny pores. While these pores may be invisible to the naked eyed due to their tiny size, they are visible under a microscope, and can act as a breeding ground for bacteria. Cleaning your dentures regularly is the best strategy to minimize bacteria, which may cause gum disease if left unchecked.
Maintains Breath Fresh
Bad breath can occur for a number of reasons. However, an over accumulation of bacteria is usually one of the major culprits. Cleaning your dentures at least twice a day not only helps control bacteria, but it also prevents the buildup of food particles, including coffee and garlic, which are popular foods that leave a residual odor.
Gives Your Gums a Rest
Normally, your bone supports your teeth, which saves your gums from excessive pressure. However, when you are wearing dentures, the task of supporting them lies solely upon your gums. This means that your dentures will make your gums sore if you wear them for the whole day. Removing your dentures to clean them will give your gums enough rest.
What Do You Need to Clean Dentures?
Dentures are a valuable investment that should be handled and cleaned properly. For effective cleaning, a special denture brush and denture cleaner is recommended. However, you can use a regular brush with soft bristles and mild dish-washing liquid or hand soap to clean your dentures.
Other important supplies that can make your denture-cleaning experience easier and enjoyable include lemon juice, white vinegar, lemon, hydrogen peroxide and salt.
How to Clean Dentures Effectively
Invest in a Denture Brush
In order to fully clean your dentures, consider investing in a denture brush. If you have a single denture, buy two brushes: one for your natural teeth and one for your denture.
Accident Proof the Area
Start by making your workplace accident proof. Cover the bottom of the sink with a face cloth and partially fill the sink with water to offer a cushion in case you accidentally drop your dentures, as they can easily break when dropped on hard surfaces.
Rinse Your Dentures
Before you begin brushing, rinse your dentures with warm water to remove any food particles.
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Use Warm Water and Cleansing Gel
Clean your dentures using a gel or paste made specifically for dentures. You can also use a mild dish-washing soap, or other mild, non-toxic cleaning product. Don’t clean your dentures with toothpaste, or any other rough or powdered cleaning products, as they may scratch your dentures and create areas for bacteria to grow.
Brush Your Dentures
Holding the denture brush with your dominant hand, gently scrub all parts of your dentures, including the rounded and grooved areas. Be gentle throughout the brushing process to avoid damaging them.
Rinse
Hold your denture under running water and wash away any remaining debris or cleaning product. Carefully inspect your dentures for cleanliness. Slippery areas need to be re-brushed as this indicates areas of tartar build-up.
Insert Your Dentures
Once cleaning is complete, put your dentures in your mouth if you are ready to wear them, or place them in water to keep them moist.
Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Dentures
Keep Your Denture Moist
When you are not wearing your dentures, put them in water or a denture soaking solution. Soaking them every day helps maintain their shape and prolongs their lifespan.
Rinse Before Wearing
Before wearing your dentures after brushing or soaking them, remember to rinse them. This will help ensure your dentures feel both clean and fresh.
With frequent cleaning and maintenance, your dentures can last for years. And knowing how to clean dentures is easier than it sounds. However, it is imperative to visit your dentist at least once per year to have them inspect the state and fit of your dentures to ensure that you are getting the most out of your device.
