Dentures, or false teeth, are an excellent tooth replacement solution if you are missing multiple teeth or even an entire dental arch. Dentures can help you regain your confidence and make chewing and speaking easier.
While custom dentures are built to last, they require regular maintenance to retain their fit, condition, and colour. Learning how to clean dentures is crucial for long-lasting comfort and functionality. Dapto Dentists also offers repair, rebasing, and relining services if you damage your dentures.
How to Clean Dentures?
Cleaning false teeth is a crucial part of your oral hygiene routine. Not only does it prolong the lifespan of your dentures, but it also protects your gums and remaining teeth. If you are wondering how to clean dentures, follow these simple steps.
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Prepare the cleaning area
Most people clean their dentures in their bathroom before they sleep at night. However, most bathrooms feature hard surfaces like granite countertops and ceramic tiles, which could damage your dentures if you drop them. Fill your sink with cool or lukewarm water and cover any hard surfaces with towels to protect your dentures if they fall accidentally.
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Remove dentures carefully
Gargling warm (not hot) water helps loosen your dentures for removal. It relaxes the adhesive seal, allowing them to slide out easily. Handle your dentures carefully when removing them to avoid bending or breaking. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the denture plate material.
Remove the bottom set first, using your thumb and middle finger to move it back and forth slowly until it pulls away from your gums. Use the same technique to release the top row.
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Clean your mouth and remaining teeth
If you have partial dentures, brush and floss your natural teeth. This is also necessary to remove any adhesive from the dentures. Caring for your remaining teeth is equally as important as cleaning false teeth. Failing to maintain your oral health can cause further tooth decay, gum disease, or bacterial infection. Diseased tissue and inflammation can make your dentures feel uncomfortable.
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Rinse and brush the dentures
Rinse your dentures with cool or lukewarm water to remove food particles and any debris lodged in the prosthesis. Be careful not to bend them. When the larger chunks of debris have been removed, clean the dentures thoroughly using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
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Soak dentures overnight
Dentures require moisture to retain their shape. Leaving your teeth on your bathroom countertop for several hours can cause them to dry out and warp. Always soak your dentures in cool or lukewarm water overnight.
If your dentures have developed plaque or tartar, use a specialized denture-soaking solution to loosen the calculus for easy removal.
If you prefer a natural approach to denture maintenance, you can also use equal parts lukewarm water and distilled white vinegar as a soaking solution.
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Rinse dentures
Before putting your dentures back in your mouth, rinse them thoroughly, removing excess dental solution and any other particles that may have dislodged during soaking. Some soaking solutions contain chemicals that aren’t safe for consumption.
Care for Your Dentures with Regular Checkups
If your dentures feel loose or you notice any damage during cleaning, get in touch with Dapto Dentists today. While knowing how to clean dentures helps maintain their condition, accidents can happen. Whether you need a repair, replacement, relining, or a six-month checkup, book an appointment online or call us on (02) 4210 9058 today.
References
Implant dentistry in Australia: the present and future. A survey of Australian dentists and specialists
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/adj.12532
Risk of periodontal diseases increased by sugar-rich diet
https://www.ada.org.au/News-Media/News-and-Release/Latest-News/Risk-of-periodontal-diseases-increased-by-sugar-ri
