What Is Best for Cleaning Dentistry Dentures?
Dentures are made of synthetic materials, but they need to be cleaned and cared for just like your own teeth. Unclean dentures can result in plaque formation, foul odor and staining, and also cause your other healthy teeth to get decayed. Denture care is simple, but needs to be regularly followed to ensure good oral health and hygiene.
There are a variety of denture-cleaning products available. You can purchase one that has been recommended by your dentist, and follow daily cleaning instructions provided by your dentist as well as the manufacturer's directions on the product label.
If your oral hygienist has not provided you with a specific denture-cleaning routine, perform the following simple steps to keep your dentures clean.
Remember, the best way to clean dentures is a multi-step process that involves rinsing with plain water or effervescent denture cleaner, brushing with denture paste and followed by overnight soak in denture cleaning solution.
- Plain Water Rinse: Hold your dentures over a bowl of water (to avoid damage if they slip from your hand) and rinse them clean under running water. This will remove any food particles stuck in between the grooves.
- Effervescent Solution Rinse: Prepare an effervescent denture cleaning solution (common brands include Fixodent, Polident, etc.) soak the dentures in the solution for a minimum of 15 minutes. Use a warm water solution since dentures are made of synthetic materials; hot water may damage or change their shape. The effervescent soak will help dislodge deep-seated food particles. Rinse out the dentures again and discard the solution.
- Brush: Apply denture past to a soft-bristle brush and brush gently and thoroughly. Rinse out the dentures completely before putting them on again.
If you are unable to soak your dentures in the effervescent solution, rinse your mouth with water and mouthwash to remove food particles and prevent plaque and food odor. Keep your dentures moistened when you are not using them. If you are brushing before bed, dentures can be soaked overnight in a denture cleaning solution.