Looking After Your Dentures

How to clean your removable dentures

Whether you have removable partial or complete dentures, it is important that you keep them clean, so they last as long as possible and continue looking their best. 

For good denture care: 

Make sure to handle your dentures carefully

Be sure then when inserting and removing your dentures you do so carefully. It is more likely for you to damage your dentures while you are cleaning them. Be sure not to bend or damage the plastic or the clasps. 

See your dentist if it feels loose 

If your dentures are continuously clicking while you are speaking or eating or you feel them becoming loose, make sure you see your dentist promptly. Loose dentures can cause sores, irritation and infection. 

Remove your dentures after eating  

Your dentures work very similar to normal teeth so be sure to rinse your mouth and remove the denture after you have eaten. You should also run water over your dentures after you have eaten to loosen and remove any food particles or food debris that may have gotten stuck in between your dentures. 

Clean your mouth after removing your dentures (Every Time!)

While your dentures will act like regular teeth in many ways, it is important that you take care of your mouth when you do not have your dentures in. Brush your natural teeth and gums gently with a soft bristled toothbrush and be sure not to forget your tongue.  

If you are using adhesive, it is imperative that you clean your gums, cheeks and tongue thoroughly after your denture removal to remove any remaining denture adhesive from your gums and mouth. 

Soak your dentures overnight 

This one is Denture rule number one! 

Most types of dentures will need to be kept moist to keep their shape. You can either place your dentures in water overnight or an appropriate denture-soaking solution. Your dentist will recommend the best storing solution for you and the type of dentures you have. 

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on both cleaning and overnight storing. 

Rinse dentures before putting them back in your mouth 

It is really easy for your dentures to accumulate unwanted bacteria on them. Therefore, you need to rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth, especially if you are using a denture cleaning solution to soak them overnight. These solutions can contain harmful chemicals that are not meant to be swallowed. If swallowed, it can cause pain, burns or even vomiting and you should be a doctor straight away. Try to prevent this from happening by thoroughly rinsing your dentures every time before placing them back in your mouth.

Brush your dentures daily (at least)

Remove your dentures and gently soak and brush them at least once a day. Use a soft bristled brush and a nonabrasive denture cleaner to remove any bacteria, plaque or food that could have gotten onto your dentures. It is important for you to keep a good cleaning routine for your dentures to ensure they last as long as they possibly can in the best condition. 

If you use denture adhesive, clean the grooves that fit on your gums to remove any remaining adhesive.

DO NOT USE DENTURE CLEANER INSIDE YOUR MOUTH!

Schedule regular dental check-ups 

Your dentist will recommend how often they would like to see you to check on the health of your mouth and your dentures. These check-ups are important for your dentist to examine if your dentures are properly fit, and they can also clean your dentures professionally. While you are wearing dentures the health of your natural teeth and gums also needs to be regularly examined to ensure they are also healthy. Usually, these check-ups should happen routinely every 6 months.