How to Store Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are prosthetic devices that replace some of the teeth that have been lost from periodontal disease, tooth decay or physical injury. The American Dental Association notes that if you're fitted with partial dentures, your dentist probably will advise you to remove and store them at night while you're sleeping. Storing partial dentures is very similar to storing complete dentures. However, because partial dentures can be made with a metal precision attachments, it's always best to get your dentist's advice when choosing products for their storage and care.

Things You'll Need

• Thick, dry towel
• Denture toothbrush
• Denture cleanser, preferably approved by the ADA
• Denture soaking solution (if recommended by your dentist)
• Glass or bowl large enough to comfortably contain partial dentures

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Instructions

Partial Denture Care

• 1

  Place a thick, dry towel over hard surfaces when you take out your partial dentures. The American Dental Association notes that partial dentures break easily if they slip from your grasp. You also can take partial dentures out over a basin filled with water.

• 2

  Clean partial dentures before you store them at night. The ADA advises first rinsing them with water to remove large pieces of debris. Using a soft-bristled denture toothbrush and cleanser appropriate for dentures, brush all of the surfaces. The ADA notes that a mild soap (such as hand soap and dishwashing detergents) also can be used.

• 3

  Store partial dentures overnight in a glass or bowl filled with water; dentures must be kept in moisture to retain their shape. Soaking solutions made for dentures might be appropriate for some partial dentures, but if yours are made with metal components, some soaking solutions can cause tarnishing. Ask your dentist which method is appropriate.