Tips for Keeping Your Dentures in Tip-top Condition
Posted on: 14 May 2015
New denture wearers often have questions about how to best keep their dentures clean and in good condition. Looking after your dentures will prolong their life, but it'll also protect your oral health as dirty dentures have high levels of bacteria and fungus, which can irritate and inflame your gums. Here are a few tips for keeping your dentures in great condition:
Embrace a Thorough Daily Cleaning Routine
Thoroughly cleaning your dentures every day will minimise the amount of bacteria on them from food debris and prevent the build-up of plaque. Here's a straightforward routine for you to follow:
- Before going to bed, take your dentures out and give them a good rinse under cold water to remove food debris. Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle cleaning paste specifically made for dentures to clean them as you would your teeth. Next, brush the underside of your dentures, but clean them gently to prevent scratching their surface, which can cause discolouration.
- Place your dentures in a glass of cold water or denture-soaking solution, which has the benefit of an added stain remover, to keep them moist overnight. Allowing your dentures to dry out can cause them to crack.
- The next day, give your dentures a final clean with a soft brush and cold running water before placing them back in your mouth. This step is particularly beneficial if you use a denture-soaking solution, which some denture wearers find irritating to the soft tissues in their mouth.
- After each meal, take your dentures out and hold them under cold running water to rinse away food particles.
Know What Cleaning Substances Are Harmful
The following substances can damage your dentures:
- Bleach-containing products can weaken denture material and cause discolouration.
- Hard-bristled brushes and abrasive toothpastes such as those with microbeads or whitening properties can cause surface scratches. Debris gets trapped in tiny scratches, providing an abundant food source for bacteria.
- Dentures can lose their shape and become warped if they are rinsed with or soaked in hot water. Only use cold water to clean your dentures or you'll have to replace them prematurely.
Special Considerations
If you have dentures with a soft lining or metal attachments, only use a cleaning paste and denture-soaking solution that your dentist has recommended. Soft linings are often used if you have sensitive gums as they reduce irritation, but certain cleaning products can damage them. Similarly, metal attachments can become corroded if cleaned with unsuitable products.
Some people find it difficult to keep their dentures clean such as those with dexterity problems. If you're struggling, you don't have to risk your oral health or put up with plaque on your dentures. For assistance or tips, consult clinics like The Denture Centre.
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