Denture wearers rely on their custom-fit appliance in order to speak and eat comfortably. Caring for this appliance requires careful tooth brushing. However, a typical toothbrush may be too abrasive for use on dentures. Knowing which is appropriate to care for your teeth and how to perform proper maintenance can help you to maintain gum health.
Brush Head
The brush head of a denture brush has two sides with bristles while a toothbrush has only one side with bristles. On the denture brush, one side resembles a standard toothbrush. The other side features fewer bristles that are pointed at the tip, which allows you to reach the crevices of your dentures. The brush head on a toothbrush can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Innovations in toothbrush heads feature various bristle lengths to reach into the crevices of your teeth.
Bristles
Because dentures are very delicate, denture brushes typically are more softly bristled than a toothbrush, according to the Family Gentle Dental Care website, a website operated by Dr. Dan Peterson, a Nebraska-based dentist. Toothbrushes are available in a variety of bristle firmness ratings, including hard, medium and soft, according to Dynamic Dental, a dental practice located in Massachusetts.
Care
Denture brushes should be cleaned in a solution of 50 percent water, 50 percent bleach once per week, according to Family Dental Gentle Care. This helps to prevent fungus from growing on the toothbrush, which can contaminate your dentures. You can clean your toothbrush once per week by soaking it in diluted castile soap, according to Dr. Mark Burhenne, a dentist writing on the website Ask the Dentist. For both brush types, it is best to store them in an area other than your bathroom because this room tends to be the most contaminated in your home.
Considerations
While a toothbrush with soft bristles can be utilized to remove debris from dentures when necessary, it is important to ensure no residual toothpaste remains on the toothbrush you use, according to Animated-Teeth.com. This is because the excess can scratch the dentures.
Warning
Even when you properly clean your denture or toothbrush, it is important to replace each regularly---typically once every two months if you regularly clean your brush. Your toothbrush also should be replaced regularly before, during and after an illness, recommends Dr. Burhenne. This prevents you from becoming re-infected by your toothbrush.
