Caring for & Cleaning Dentures

Older couple with dentures on beach

For denture wearing patients to be able to properly utilize their dentures to speak, smile and eat naturally, maintenance and comfort are mandatory. Food Accumulates in dentures every time you eat. Food particles stick to the rough plastic surface of dentures far more easily than it does to oral tissues. Allowing bacterial build up over time and can lead to a variety of oral problems.

Bad breath is a common concern among a majority of denture-wearers. Inflamed oral tissues is another legitimate complication. When food particles collect and build upon a section of the dentures in contact with your mouth, the bacteria that feed on this leftover food can transfer to the gums and tissues – causing infection. If neglected, the resulting inflammation may develop into periodontal gum disease or mouth sores related to denture stomatitis, that can appear at the corners of the lips.

Regardless of the type of denture you are wearing, it is essential for you to know how to clean dentures effectively.

How to Clean Off Dentures?

  • In addition to your regular daily brushing, Denture cleaning solutions should be used periodically to soak off food deposits from the denture.
  • Avoid using abrasive materials such as stiff-bristled brushes, whitening toothpaste to clean dentures as these can damage the dentures.
  • Never use hot or boiling water to clean or soak your dentures. Dentures that have metal fittings or framework should not be soaked in any solution containing chlorine as it can cause the metal to tarnish.
  • Clean your dentures after eating.
  • Brush or scrub using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Don't let dentures dry out – always place them in plain water or a denture cleanser soaking solution.
  • Brush your gums, tongue, and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush prior to inserting dentures. This promotes circulation in your tissues and removes plaque.
  • see your dentist If your dentures break, chip, crack or become loose, Consult your dentist