Customized to fit your mouth, dentures can be a great solution to help you chew and speak comfortably when you have missing teeth. Like real teeth, these prosthetics must be cared for on a regular basis to prevent damage and oral hygiene issues. However, unlike real teeth, dentures must be cleaned in quite a different manner than standard brushing and flossing. To help you protect your oral health, here are five of the best tips for cleaning dentures.  

5 Top Tips for Cleaning Dentures

1. Brush to Remove Build-Up  

When food debris and bacteria are allowed to build up on dentures, they may stain and increase your risk of dental problems — including gum disease. To keep your prosthesis clean, brush them daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. However, avoid using toothpaste, as these products contain abrasive components that can damage dentures.

2. Soak in Solution Every Night

When dentures aren’t in use they should be fully submerged in water to prevent warping. Additionally, you should remove the device every night and place it in a glass with a denture cleaning solution recommended by your dentist. Thanks to effervescent action, these solutions work overnight to remove build-up, prevent staining, and keep the prosthesis clean.

3. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Even if you no longer have natural teeth, it’s critical to keep your gums clean. As such, you should make sure to brush your gums clean and rinse with an anti-bacterial mouthwash every time you remove your dentures.

4. Handle Gently

While dentures are crafted from strong materials that can support day-to-day chewing, they can still break when they hit hard surfaces. To minimize the risk of damage, you should avoid handling dentures over bare countertops. Instead, perform cleaning over a folded towel or a sink full of water that will help safeguard the device from impact in the event that it slips.

5. Rinse Before Putting Back In

After you’ve soaked your dentures overnight, make sure to rinse them in warm water before putting them back in your mouth. Some cleansing solutions contain harsh chemicals that can irritate tissues in your mouth or cause stomach problems.

In addition to following these tips, keeping your dentures in good shape relies on regular visits with a trusted dentist—such as Ronald L. Rasmussen, DDS. Serving patients in the Sacramento, CA, area, this dentist provides in-depth cleanings and check-ups that will not only keep your dentures hygienic but also ensure that they continue to fit comfortably. If you have missing teeth, Dr. Rasmussen can also restore your smile through advanced cosmetic dentistry solutions—including custom dentures and dental implants. Visit this practice online to learn more about these treatment options, or call (916) 689-1100 to schedule a convenient consultation with this friendly provider.