What Cleans Dentures?

It is crucial for denture-wearers to learn how to properly care for their dentures and mouth. Improper denture cleaning can lead to scratches, pitting, breakage or the need for a replacement set. There are several do’s and don’ts when it comes to cleaning and caring for your dentures, mouth and gums.

Manual Cleaning

• Fill a sink or basin with two to three inches of lukewarm water and hold your dentures over the liquid to prevent breakage or damage. Wet the dentures under the running tap and gently scrub the entire surface with denture cleaning paste and a denture brush or soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse the denture thoroughly under warm water to remove any remaining paste and loosened plastic and food particles. Dry the dentures with a soft cloth and store in a plastic container or soak the dentures overnight.

Ultrasonic Cleaners

• Ultrasonic cleaners are more expensive than manual cleaning, but provide a more through hands-free scrubbing through the use of sounds waves that create ripples, loosening unwanted plaque and mineral deposits. According to WebMD, ultrasonic cleansers are used in conjunction with manual cleanings to effectively remove smaller particulates that denture brush and toothbrushes cannot eliminate. WebMD also emphasizes locating an ultrasonic cleanser that is tested and approved by the American Dental Association or ADA.

Mouth and Gum Care

• Maintaining proper gum, mouth and tongue cleanliness is crucial to keeping your dentures free of food particulates, bacteria and plaque. Remove the dentures from your mouth before scrubbing your tongue, inner cheeks and tongue with a soft-bristled toothbrush and plain water. Rinse your mouth with salt water before inserting your dentures. It’s also crucial that your dentures and rinsed after every meal to prevent discoloration and bacterial growth inside your mouth.

Denture Don’ts

• Avoid cleaning your dentures with hard bristled brushes, vinegar and bleach, since these damage and degrade the denture’s teeth and soft gums. Soak your dentures at night or dry them thoroughly before storing to prevent bacterial infection and damage from excess moisture. Visit your dentist at least twice a year to check for proper fit and any signs of gum decay and disease. According to WebMD, replace dentures every five to seven years or if they are worn or no longer fit properly.