What’s the best way to care for removable dentures?

Removable partial or full dentures require proper denture care to keep them clean, free from stains and looking their best. For good denture care:

• Remove and rinse dentures after eating. Run water over your dentures to remove food debris and other loose particles. You may want to place a towel on the counter or in the sink so that the dentures won’t break if you drop them.

Taking Care of Gums

• Since the dentures sit directly on the surface of the gums, it’s essential to maintain immaculate oral health not just in the teeth and tongue area but on the gums themselves. This maintenance can be accomplished by using a toothbrush and some regular toothpaste to thoroughly brush the upper, lower and sides of the gums, both the insides and the outsides, all around the areas where the person may still have some natural teeth left if the dentures are the partial type. If they’re full dentures, then the entire gum surface requires brushing of at lest two minutes using a gentle brushing motion. Don’t be too harsh or abrasive on the gums because they can bleed which can cause problems for the dentures themselves. Just brush easily and smoothly for the best maintenance possible.
• Scrub your dentures at least daily. Gently scrub your dentures using a denture cleaner, mild soap or dishwashing liquid and a denture brush or soft toothbrush to remove food, plaque and other deposits. Avoid stiff-bristled brushes, strong cleansers and harsh toothpaste, as these are too abrasive and can damage your dentures. Toothpastes advertised as whitening pastes are especially abrasive and should be avoided with removable dentures.
• Handle your dentures carefully. Be sure you don’t bend or damage the plastic or the clasps when cleaning.
• Soak dentures overnight. Most types of dentures need to remain moist to keep their shape. Place the dentures in water or a mild denture-soaking solution overnight. Don’t soak dentures with metal attachments in solutions that contain chlorine because it can tarnish the metal. Check with your dentist about properly storing your dentures overnight.
• Rinse dentures before putting them back in your mouth, especially if using a denture-soaking solution. These solutions can contain harmful chemicals that cause vomiting, pain or burns if swallowed.
• See your Dental prosthetist promptly if your dentures become loose. Loose dentures can cause irritation, sores and infection.