Maintaining your dentures properly is key to preserving not only their appearance and functionality but also your overall oral health. Thanks to revolutionary materials and techniques, today’s dentures are far more sophisticated than ever before.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps on how to clean your dentures effectively, ensuring they remain in top condition and continue to bring out your best smile.
Understanding Your Dentures
While dentures take some getting used to, modern dentistry has made considerable advancements in the design of these dental appliances, making them more comfortable and natural-looking than ever before.
Types of Dentures
Complete Dentures
These are used when all teeth are missing and can be either “conventional” or “immediate.” Conventional dentures are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, while immediate dentures are prepared in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed.
Partial Dentures
These are opted for when one or more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures are not only beneficial from an aesthetic point of view but also prevent other teeth from shifting.
At Granite Belt Dental, we provide a range of denture options. From unobtrusive flexible single tooth replacements with clear bases to full dentures retained with dental implants, our solutions improve aesthetics and restore functionality effectively. If you’re interested in exploring these options, contact our team today to help you find the best solution for your needs.
Daily Cleaning and Maintenance of Dentures
Basic Steps for Daily Denture Cleaning
Remove and Rinse
After eating, remove your dentures to rinse away food particles under warm (not hot) water. This helps prevent food and plaque buildup.
Brush Daily
Use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive denture cleanser to gently brush all surfaces of the dentures. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface, making the dentures more prone to staining.
Rinse Thoroughly
After brushing, rinse the dentures thoroughly under running water to remove any leftover cleanser.
Soaking Your Dentures Overnight
Soaking your dentures overnight not only cleanses them but also helps to maintain their shape.
Use a Denture Soaking Solution
Denture-specific solutions help remove stains and plaque and disinfect your dentures. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Natural Soaking Solutions
For a more natural approach, you can soak your dentures in a solution of equal parts vinegar and water, which helps in removing stains and disinfecting. Rinse thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth to remove any taste of vinegar.
Weekly Deep Cleaning Techniques
Commercial Solutions
Effervescent Tablets
These tablets typically contain active ingredients that help remove tough stains and bacteria when used in soaking. Simply drop a tablet into warm water with your dentures and let them sit as directed before rinsing them thoroughly.
Natural Methods
Baking Soda Paste
Create a paste using baking soda and a small amount of water. Gently brush this mixture onto the dentures to help remove stains and neutralise odours. Rinse well after cleaning.
Hydrogen Peroxide
This is another safe alternative for deep cleaning. Soak your dentures in a solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water to help kill bacteria and whiten your dentures. Ensure a thorough rinse before using the dentures again.
Handling and Storing Your Dentures
Safe Handling to Prevent Damage
Be Gentle
Always handle your dentures with care. When cleaning or removing them, do so over a folded towel or a basin filled with water to avoid breakage if they are accidentally dropped.
Avoid Bending
When cleaning your dentures, be careful not to bend or damage the plastic or the clasps while brushing.
Storing Dentures When Not in Use
Keep Them Moist
To prevent your dentures from drying out and losing their shape, store them in a denture cleaning solution or plain water when you’re not wearing them. However, if your dentures have metal attachments, water is preferable as it could tarnish the metal when soaked in a solution.
Avoid Heat
Store your dentures away from heat sources, as excessive heat can warp dentures, altering their fit.
Advanced Denture Care
Importance of Regular Dental Visits
Professional Cleaning
Your dentist or dental hygienist can perform a professional cleaning on your dentures, which can remove any built-up tartar and hard-to-reach deposits that regular home cleaning might miss.
Adjustments
Over time, your mouth may change, which can affect the fit of the dentures. Regular visits allow your dentist to make necessary adjustments to ensure optimal comfort and functionality.
Oral Health Check
These visits are also an opportunity to check your oral health for any issues such as gum disease or oral cancer, which are important for everyone, but especially for denture wearers.
The Granite Belt Touch
At Granite Belt Dental, we offer a variety of advanced denture options, including traditional dentures as well as those supported by dental implants. We also offer professional cleaning for aftercare of your dentures.
If you’re interested in exploring these denture options or need advice on maintaining your current dentures, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome with your oral journey and ensuring you can smile with confidence.
