Caring for your dentures is an important part of maintaining good oral health. Removable dentures that are not cleaned properly can become a breeding ground for plaque, bad odors, Candida growth, and even gum irritation. If left untreated, these issues may lead to gum inflammation, tissue sores, and changes in the denture’s shape due to plaque and debris buildup.
Keeping your dentures clean is not only about appearance, it’s also about long-term comfort and oral health. With proper denture care, you can use your removable dentures safely and comfortably every day.
How to Clean Removable Dentures Daily
Cleaning your dentures every day is essential to keep them hygienic, bacteria-free, and long-lasting. Recommended steps:
Remove your dentures gently and avoid pulling or forcing them out.
Rinse them under running water after meals to remove food debris.
Use a soft-bristled denture brush and non-abrasive cleanser.
Avoid regular toothpaste, as it can scratch and dull the denture surface.
Brush all areas thoroughly, especially the parts that rest on your gums.
Maintaining this daily routine helps prevent bad breath, plaque buildup, and stubborn stains.
Using Denture Cleaning Tablets
Cleaning tablets are a practical option to help maintain denture hygiene. They work as a safe and effective denture cleaning solution. Benefits include:
Eliminating odor-causing bacteria
Helping remove tough stains
Safe for resin materials
Reducing the risk of gum irritation
How to use: Dissolve one tablet in warm water, place your dentures inside, and let them soak for 5–10 minutes as instructed.
How to Soak and Store Dentures Overnight
Removable dentures should not be worn while sleeping, as it may cause excessive pressure, fungal infection, or soft tissue sores. Proper storage guidelines:
Use a closed denture container
Fill it with clean water or a special denture solution
Avoid hot water, which can distort the shape
Ensure the dentures remain fully submerged to prevent drying or cracking
Soaking them nightly helps maintain their shape, moisture, and cleanliness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Denture Care
Avoid the following habits to keep your dentures in good condition:
Using regular abrasive toothpaste
Soaking dentures in hot water
Using household bleach
Brushing too aggressively
Wearing dentures continuously without giving your gums a rest
These habits can cause discoloration, surface cracks, and discomfort while wearing the dentures.
Maintaining Gum Health Under Your Dentures
Aside from denture care, your gum health is just as important. Tips to protect your gums:
Brush your gums gently every morning and night
Use an antiseptic mouthwash if needed
Pay attention to irritation, redness, or sores
If your gums feel sore, swollen, or painful, visit your dentist for an evaluation.
Conclusion
Removable denture care requires daily attention to keep them clean, comfortable, and durable. By cleaning your dentures regularly, using cleaning tablets, soaking them at night, and maintaining gum health, you can prevent odors, irritation, and damage.
Proper care ensures your dentures function well and helps you stay confident every day.
Reference
Algabri, R., Alqutaibi, A. Y., Altayyar, S., Mohammed, A., Khoshafa, G., Alryashi, E., Al-Shaher, S., Hassan, B., Hassan, G., Dammag, M., Al-Aqab, S., Al-Shami, S., & Al-Barakani, A. (2024). Behaviors, hygiene habits, and sources of care among removable complete and partial dentures wearers: A multicenter cross-sectional study. Clinical and experimental dental research, 10(2), e867. https://doi.org/10.1002/cre2.867
Schmutzler, A., Rauch, A., Nitschke, I., Lethaus, B., & Hahnel, S. (2021). Cleaning of removable dental prostheses – A systematic review. Journal of Evidence Based Dental Practice, 21(4), 101644. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jebdp.2021.101644
