Dentures are artificial teeth designed to replace natural teeth lost to injury or decay. Although they resemble real teeth and are equally prone to staining, they require special care and cleaning methods. Smoking leads to yellow and brown stains on dentures that are difficult to remove with routine brushing. Light nicotine stains usually respond to home care and soaking, but heavy stains may require a professional cleaning to prevent damage.
Step 1
Place a folded bath or hand towel at the bottom of your sink. This will prevent your dentures from chipping or breaking if you drop them during the cleaning process, according to the British Dental Health Foundation.
Step 2
Rinse your dentures in warm, running water. Avoid using very hot water, as this may damage or warp your dentures. Brush them with a soft toothbrush and denture paste to remove food and other debris. The Mayo Clinic warns against using abrasive toothpastes and other cleaners.
Step 3
Soak your dentures in an effervescent denture solution, per the manufacturer's direction. These solutions will remove most stains, including nicotine. Check the product packaging to determine how long to keep your dentures in the solution. The British Dental Health Association recommends against soaking overnight.
Step 4
Remove your dentures from the effervescent solution and brush them again, as normal. Use the toothbrush to clean inside every crack. Brush gently and rinse well.
Step 5
Try soaking your dentures in baking soda and water if nicotine stains are still present. According to the Environmental Law Centre, baking soda is safe for most surfaces and will not scratch porcelain. Mix a couple of teaspoons of baking soda into a bowl of warm water and soak your dentures for 20 minutes or longer.
Step 6
Visit your dentist for a professional cleaning and whitening. Do not attempt to bleach your dentures at home. Doing so may damage or weaken plastic and porcelain dentures.
Things You'll Need
- Bath towel
- Toothbrush
- Denture paste
- Glass bowl
- Effervescent denture solution
- Baking soda
