If you’re missing several teeth, a whole arch, or all of your pearly whites, your dentist may recommend dentures to replace them. These restorations have been filling in the gaps in people’s smiles for centuries and can help patients regain some of their bite power so they can have a more nutritious diet. If you’re thinking about getting these restorations or currently have them, knowing the right way to clean them is key. Read on to learn about cleaning dentures and whether it’s okay to do so while wearing them.
Can You Clean Dentures While Wearing Them?
Dentures are made of two parts: the base and the teeth. The base is made from an acrylic material that mimics the look and color of your gum tissue. The teeth can be made from several materials, including acrylic and porcelain. Just like the gum-colored base, they are designed to resemble your natural teeth.
Though cleaning dentures while you wear them allows you to remove plaque and food particles from the teeth, you won’t be able to clean areas such as under the base. This may lead to irritation and can also raise your risk of oral health issues.
How to Properly Care for Your Dentures
So, even though it’s possible to clean parts of your dentures while you wear them, this isn’t the best method. Some ways to ensure that cleaning dentures goes smoothly include:
- Take precautions – Clean your restorations over a sink full of water or a soft, folded towel. This will prevent your dentures from breaking if you drop them.
- Remove – Remove your dentures and rinse them off with cool water to help remove food particles.
- Brush – Clean your restorations with either a denture brush or a soft-bristled toothbrush. You should also use either denture cleaner or non-abrasive toothpaste. This will allow you to remove plaque and food particles. Additionally, if you use adhesive to keep your dentures from moving while you speak eat, or talk, clean that away as well.
- Soak overnight – Put your restorations in a cup of cold, fresh water or a denture-cleaning solution so they can soak overnight. This will help kill bacteria still left on them after brushing.
- Rinse them off – Use cool water to rinse off your dentures before putting them back in your mouth so you don’t accidentally introduce cleaning solution into your mouth.
The above tips should make properly cleaning dentures easier for those who wear them. By taking good care of your restorations, you can keep your smile looking bright, beautiful, and brag-worthy!
About the Practice
Cambria Smiles serves patients in the Cambria area from the comfort of their inviting dental office. They specialize in all things related to the smiles of both adults and children. Additionally, if you have missing teeth are want to have them replaced, they offer options like dentures so you can once again enjoy having a full set of pearly whites. To learn more about cleaning dentures or to schedule an appointment with Cambria Smiles, call their office at (805) 927-4811 or visit their website.