Denture Home Care
Complete and partial dentures should be cleaned every day just like natural teeth. Otherwise, plaque and tartar can build up on your dentures and cause stains, bad breath and gum problems. Plaque on your dentures can spread to your natural teeth and gums, leading to gum disease and cavities.
To clean your dentures, remove them and rinse them under water to remove all food particles. Run a denture brush or a regular toothbrush with soft bristles under water, then place a denture cleaner or mild soap on it. Household cleaners and regular toothpastes are too abrasive and should not be used for cleaning dentures. Gently brush all surfaces of the denture, including under the hooks, where bacteria resides. Take care not to damage the plastic or bend the fasteners. Rinse your dentures well with clean water before putting them back in your mouth.
After removing your dentures, take care to clean and massage your gums well. If your toothbrush irritates your gums, run it under hot water to soften the bristles or use a clean damp cloth wrapped around your finger. If you have partial dentures, brush your natural teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss.
Always remove your dentures in the evening to rest your mouth. Soak them overnight in lukewarm water with or without denture cleaner. If your dentures have metal hooks, soak them in lukewarm water only, as other products can dull the metal. When you are not wearing your dentures, store them in water to prevent them from drying out or becoming deformed. Never soak them in hot water.
Dentures can break if they are dropped or tightened too much. When handling your dentures, hold them over a folded towel or sink filled with water in case you drop them.
Examine your dentures to check for cracks. If you find any, take them to your dentist or denturist to have them repaired. Visit your dentist regularly and at least once a year. Your mouth is continually changing, so your dentures will need to be adjusted or aligned regularly so that they fit your mouth properly. Poorly fitted dentures can cause damage that makes it difficult to detect the presence of cancer in the mouth. During your dental exam, your dentist will also examine your gums for any signs of oral disease or cancer; he will also check your natural teeth for signs of cavities or infection.
