If you wear dentures, you already know they make a difference. They help you eat. They help you speak. And they restore the look of your smile. But dentures aren’t like your natural teeth. They need different care to stay comfortable and functional over the long haul. And keeping them clean isn’t just about appearance. It’s about your overall health.
Let us walk you through the basics of denture care, so yours stay in great shape for years.
Daily Cleaning Is Non-Negotiable
The same plaque that builds up on natural teeth also builds up on oral appliances. And if you don’t remove it, it can harden into tartar. That doesn’t just look bad. It can irritate your gums and lead to infections, especially fungal infections like thrush.
We recommend removing your dentures after meals to rinse off food particles. That’s a good start, but it’s not enough for a thorough clean.
Every day, you should brush your dentures with a soft-bristled brush designed specifically for dentures. Avoid regular toothpaste. It’s often too abrasive and can scratch the surface of your dentures. Those scratches become hiding places for bacteria. Instead, use a mild soap, dishwashing liquid, or a denture cleanser recommended by us.
Gently brush every surface. Don’t forget the areas that fit against your gums. And take your time. Rushing can lead to bending or damaging the plastic.
Soaking Overnight
Dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. When they dry out, they can warp and not fit properly. That’s why most dentures should be soaked overnight in water or a denture-soaking solution.
Check with us about what’s best for your specific type of denture. Some cleaning solutions are fine for daily use. Others are better suited for weekly deep cleans. Don’t use hot or boiling water. That can distort the plastic and cause your dentures to lose their fit.
Handle With Care
Dentures are durable, but they’re not indestructible. They can break if you drop them. And a broken denture usually means a trip to our office and time without your teeth.
We suggest filling your sink with water or placing a folded towel on the counter when you clean them. That way, if you drop them, they have a softer landing. Hold them securely while you brush, and don’t bend the clasps if your dentures have them.
Your Gums Need Care Too
Caring for your dentures doesn’t stop with the dentures themselves. Your gums and any remaining natural teeth need attention as well.
When your dentures are out, take a moment to brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft brush. That removes plaque and stimulates circulation. If you have natural teeth that work with a partial denture, brush and floss them normally.
This daily routine helps prevent irritation and keeps your mouth healthy.
When to See Us
Even with excellent care, dentures change over time. Your gums and bone can shrink slightly, which affects the fit. A denture that fits well when you first get it can become loose after a few years.
We recommend regular checkups so we can evaluate the fit of your dentures. We can adjust them if they’re rubbing or feel uncomfortable. We can also deep-clean them professionally, removing stains and buildup that home care can’t handle.
If your dentures ever feel painful, slip too much, or make eating difficult, don’t wait for your regular appointment. Give us a call. That might mean a simple adjustment is all you need.
Restore Your Bite Today
Dentures are an investment in your health and confidence. Like any investment, they benefit from regular care and maintenance. A few minutes a day and regular visits to us will help them last longer and fit better.
Our team at AH Smiles serves patients from Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Long Grove, Deerfield, and Northbrook. If you have questions about caring for your dentures or if they’re not feeling quite right, give us a call. We’re here to help.