Dentures can significantly improve your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently when you’ve lost some or all of your teeth. However, maintaining good denture care is essential for their longevity, comfort, and cleanliness.
Proper care will help prevent damage, keep them fresh, and promote overall oral health. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for how to care for dentures, ensuring they remain in excellent condition.
Rinse dentures after every meal
One of the simplest and most important steps in how to care for dentures is rinsing them after every meal. Food particles and debris can get trapped in your dentures, leading to unpleasant odors, bacterial growth, or staining. By rinsing your dentures with lukewarm water after eating, you can easily remove food particles and help keep your dentures clean. This habit also ensures that your dentures remain in good condition and free of bacteria.
Be sure to rinse them gently to avoid damaging the material, as dentures can be more fragile when wet.
Clean dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleanser
Daily cleaning is essential for denture hygiene. Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned regularly to remove plaque, food particles, and stains. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for dentures and a denture cleanser. Avoid using a regular toothbrush or toothpaste, as these may be too abrasive and could scratch the surface of your dentures.
Here’s how to properly clean your dentures:
- Brush gently: Use the toothbrush to remove plaque and debris from all surfaces of your dentures.
- Use a denture cleanser: Apply a denture-specific cleanser or soak your dentures in a mild cleaning solution. Do not use harsh cleaning agents like bleach, as they can damage your dentures.
A clean set of dentures not only helps keep them looking great but also reduces the risk of mouth infections.
Soak dentures overnight in a mild cleaning solution
At the end of each day, it’s a good idea to soak your dentures overnight. This helps them retain their shape and prevents them from drying out or becoming brittle. Soaking also gives you a chance to clean your dentures more thoroughly.
When soaking your dentures, use a mild cleaning solution, such as a special denture soaking solution or a mixture of warm water and denture cleaner. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the dentures to warp or lose their shape. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for soaking time.
Handle dentures carefully to prevent damage and breakage
Dentures can be delicate, and improper handling can lead to damage or breakage. Always handle your dentures with care, especially when cleaning or removing them. A good practice is to place a towel or soft cloth in the sink before cleaning them, so if they slip from your hands, the cloth will cushion the fall.
Be sure to avoid dropping your dentures, as they can crack or break if they hit a hard surface. Additionally, never try to adjust or reshape your dentures by yourself. If you notice any issues with the fit, consult your dentist.
Proper storage of dentures when not in use
When you’re not wearing your dentures, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their shape and cleanliness. Store your dentures in a safe, moisture-filled container when not in use, ideally in a container with a lid to prevent contamination. If you’re not wearing them overnight, make sure they’re placed in a clean, moist environment.
Leaving your dentures exposed to air for prolonged periods can cause them to dry out and warp. Therefore, always store your dentures in water or a mild denture solution overnight. This helps preserve their fit and integrity.
Maintain oral hygiene alongside denture care
Even though you wear dentures, it’s essential to continue caring for your natural teeth and gums. Brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush every morning and night. This helps remove any buildup and promotes good oral health by stimulating circulation in your gums.
Regular oral hygiene is vital to prevent gum disease, bad breath, and other oral health problems that can affect your comfort while wearing dentures.
Schedule regular dental checkups for professional maintenance
It’s important to visit your dentist regularly for professional checkups, even if you wear dentures. Your dentist will examine your dentures and ensure they fit properly. Over time, your mouth and gums may change, which can affect the fit of your dentures. Your dentist can adjust your dentures as needed to ensure comfort and prevent irritation.
Additionally, your dentist will check for signs of gum disease, oral infections, or other issues that may arise due to the use of dentures. Professional maintenance ensures that your dentures continue to serve you well and helps you maintain optimal oral health.
Use denture adhesives appropriately
Denture adhesives can help improve the fit of your dentures and prevent slipping. However, they should only be used when necessary. Overusing adhesives can lead to issues like gum irritation or difficulty removing the dentures. If you’re relying on adhesives often, it may be a sign that your dentures need adjustment.
When using denture adhesives, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Clean your dentures thoroughly before applying adhesive and remove any excess after inserting your dentures.
Avoid harmful cleaning practices
While it’s important to keep your dentures clean, some cleaning methods can actually cause harm. Avoid the following:
- Using regular toothpaste: It’s too abrasive for dentures and can scratch the surface, making them more susceptible to stains and buildup.
- Cleaning with bleach: Bleach can cause the dentures to weaken and lose their color. Stick to gentle denture cleaners.
- Scrubbing too hard: A soft-bristled brush is enough to remove most debris. Scrubbing too hard can cause scratches, which can affect the aesthetics and functionality of your dentures.
Address common denture issues promptly
If you experience any issues with your dentures, it’s important to address them as soon as possible. Common problems include:
- Loose dentures: Over time, dentures may become loose. If this happens, consult your dentist to discuss adjustments or relining.
- Sore spots or irritation: If your dentures cause pain or irritation in your gums, visit your dentist to check the fit.
- Cracks or chips: If your dentures are damaged, don’t attempt to repair them yourself. See your dentist for repairs or replacements.
Promptly addressing these issues will prevent further discomfort and ensure the longevity of your dentures.
Know when to replace or re-line your dentures
Dentures are not meant to last forever. Over time, they may become worn down, lose their fit, or suffer damage. It’s important to know when it’s time to replace or re-line your dentures. If you notice any of the following, it may be time for a new set or a re-lining:
- Your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable.
- You experience difficulty chewing or speaking.
- There are visible cracks or chips.
Your dentist can evaluate the condition of your dentures and recommend appropriate solutions, whether it’s re-lining or getting a new set.
In conclusion, caring for your dentures is essential for maintaining comfort and long-lasting results. At Neola Dental in Minneola, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve optimal denture health through personalized care and expert guidance. Whether you need help with daily cleaning routines, adjustments, or dealing with discomfort, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way.
Josaida Contreras is a Doctor of Dental Surgery and Endodontics specialist with nearly 20 years of experience. Educated in both Latin America and the U.S., she continues to expand her expertise through advanced training in implant dentistry.
