Why Denture Cleaning Is So Important?
Having clean dentures is integral to your oral hygiene. If your dentures are not cleaned properly, it can lead to inflammation, infection and decay of any remaining teeth you may have. Failing to do daily denture cleaning may also result in bad breath and a persistent bad taste in your mouth. Additionally, there have been associations with high plaque levels and heart and cardiovascular disease and complications.
Get Clean Dentures With These Easy Steps
- Having clean dentures is easier than you probably think. One of the pros is the fact that dentures need to be removed to be cleaned, so you can get a good view of your efforts.
- Another benefit is that you don’t really need any specialised equipment. A second soft-bristled toothbrush, some (non-abrasive) toothpaste or mild soap and a good brushing technique are all that you need to clean dentures every day. Use gentle, circular movements as you give each artificial tooth individual attention, working systematically from one end of the jaw to the other.
- Brushing your dentures is a lot like brushing your teeth, and it is a necessary step to keeping your dentures in good condition for as long as possible.
- Whenever you remove your dentures to clean them, you should also clean the inside of your mouth. Use gentle movements over your gums, soft tissue and any remaining teeth to ensure all the plaque is removed from your mouth.
- It is also good practice to rinse your dentures after eating.
- Soaking your dentures overnight is an effective way to get rid of any accumulated plaque spots. Use a denture soak solution or a mixture of vinegar and water and immerse your dentures in it overnight. This will remove any stains or plaque and ensure your denture is clean for the next use. You probably won’t need to soak your denture more than once or twice a week. If your denture has metal components you shouldn’t use vinegar or a denture tablet, as this can cause damage. If you are going to soak your dentures, you must do manual denture cleaning with your toothbrush first, as this will soften and loosen any build-up.
- Only use denture soak solution once before throwing it away. Remember to rinse your dentures after soaking, before you replace them in your mouth.
By leaving your dentures to soak in a glass of water at night, you give your gums a chance to heal and recover overnight.
Don’t forget your visits to the dentist twice a year, as the shape and condition need to be evaluated. Your dentist can also clean and polish your dentures at your check-up appointment.
To find out more about how to remove plaque from dentures, it’s best to speak to a professional: (02) 6188 7293.
