How to Properly Clean Your Dentures

A common misconception about dentures is that you don’t have to worry about maintaining them due to them being manmade. But despite the fact that dentures are not natural teeth, they require just as much care. This is because dentures can accumulate microorganisms and become stained, just like natural teeth. To ensure the long-term appearance and condition of your dentures, it’s important to clean them every day. Below are step-by-step instructions on how to properly clean your dentures.

1. Rinse Your Dentures

You should start the overall denture cleaning process by carefully rinsing your dentures in warm water. This is done to remove any food particles and residual acids from food you’ve recently eaten, which can cause the dentures to become more susceptible to abrasion and scratching.

2. Use a Mild Cleanser or Denture Paste

Most toothpastes are too coarse to use for cleaning dentures. There are mild cleansers on the market that are gentler than toothpastes and suitable for cleaning dentures, but purpose-made denture pastes and gels are recommended. This is because these products are more effective at eradicating bacteria that can cause damage to dentures.

3. Place a Washcloth in the Sink

It’s recommended that you place a washcloth on the bottom of the sink and partially fill it up with water. This will cushion the impact of the dentures hitting the sink’s hard surface if you accidentally drop your dentures while cleaning them.

4. Scrub the Dentures with a Soft Denture Brush

A soft purpose-made denture brush should be used that allows you to properly reach and clean every spot of your dentures. Although regular toothbrushes can be used, you’ll need to make sure the curved areas of the dentures aren’t missed. Areas that are commonly missed can accumulate more bacteria and form tartar, which can ultimately lead to inflammation and gum infection. You should hold the dentures in your non-dominant hand while cleaning, but not too firmly, as this may cause accidental damage.

5. Rinse the Dentures Again

After the dentures have been scrubbed, you should hold them under running water to rinse them off, taking care to ensure there’s no food debris or cleanser still on them. Once they’ve been rinsed, you should look over them to make sure they’ve been cleaned correctly.

6. Soak the Dentures

The final step of cleaning is to place your dentures in the cleansing solution your dentist has recommended and let them soak overnight. Dentures have to remain moist, and soaking them will stop them from drying out. This will also help to loosen any stains or food deposits that brushing alone can’t remove.

Contact Us Today

It’s important to have regular appointments with your dentist so they can help you keep your dentures clean and examine them to check for any issues. Book an appointment with Dental on Clarendon today by calling (03) 9690 3285, or contact us online.