You don't need expensive products and gadgets to keep your dentures well-cleaned and in usable shape. An important thing to keep in mind about dentures is that you must clean them every day, just like you would your real teeth. Secondly, dentures must always be placed in water whenever they're not in your mouth to keep them from drying out.
Step 1
Take dentures out at least once daily to clean them. The Columbia University College of Dental Medicine points out that most denture wearers take their dentures out before they go to sleep at night. This is an optimal time to clean your dentures so they're ready to go back in your mouth the next morning. Always handle your dentures when standing over a folded towel or a basin of water–if you drop them, they can break very easily.
Step 2
Use gentle cleaning tools. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you don't have a toothpaste made just for brushing dentures, use dishwashing liquid or another mild soap instead. Have a soft-bristled toothbrush on hand, as well. Avoid using abrasive cleansers, toothpastes and other cleaning tools. Never put bleach on your dentures to remove staining or discoloration.
Step 3
Cover every square inch with your toothbrush, including the part of the denture that makes contact with the top of your mouth. Don't brush too hard, or you'll leave grooves in the denture surface, warns the British Dental Health Foundation.
Step 4
Put dentures in water whenever they're not in your mouth. MayoClinic.Com indicates that you can place the dentures in a covered container of water or commercial soaking solution. The British Dental Health Foundation recommends the effervescent type. Never put dentures in hot water, as they can warp. Use fresh water or soaking solution each time you stow your dentures.
Step 5
Rinse your dentures before you put them back in your mouth in the morning, especially if they've been sitting in a soaking solution. These can be harmful to you if you accidentally ingest them.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep brushing your natural teeth as usual, if you wear a partial denture, advises the American Academy of General Dentistry–but only after removing the partial first.
- If you wear a partial denture, MayoClinic.Com advises soaking it in plain water, as soaking solutions may damage the metal component of the denture.
Things You'll Need
- Folded towel
- Dishwashing liquid or other type of mild soap
- Soft-bristled toothbrush or denture brush
- Covered denture container
- Soaking solution (optional)
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